The decision by USA Basketball to exclude Caitlin Clark from the 2024 Paris Olympics roster has sparked significant controversy. Casey Wasserman, the president of the Los Angeles 2028 organizing committee, criticized this move, calling it a “missed opportunity” given Clark’s exceptional talent and rising prominence in women’s basketball.
Caitlin Clark, who has been hailed as a generational talent, has made a substantial impact on the sport over recent months. Despite her impressive achievements and popularity, she was not selected for the 12-woman team representing the USA. Instead, she was placed at the top of the alternates list, a decision that has frustrated many fans and notable figures in the sports community, including Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, who didn’t hold back his displeasure, labeling the selection committee’s decision as “dumb” and “idiotic.”
Wasserman expressed his disappointment in an interview with USA Today, emphasizing that including Clark could have elevated the women’s team to new heights. He highlighted the importance of showcasing such talents to the world, especially at a time when women’s basketball is gaining more attention and appreciation globally.
Despite the controversy, the USA team, led by head coach Cheryl Reeve, includes seasoned players like Napheesa Collier, Kahleah Copper, Chelsea Gray, Brittney Griner, Sabrina Ionescu, Jewell Loyd, Kelsey Plum, Breanna Stewart, Diana Taurasi, Alyssa Thomas, A’ja Wilson, and Jackie Young. The selection committee, chaired by Jen Rizzotti, pointed out that experience was a crucial factor in their decision-making process. Rizzotti explained that the committee followed specific criteria to evaluate players, and some experienced athletes were ultimately favored over Clark.
Wasserman remains hopeful that Caitlin Clark will have the opportunity to showcase her skills on the global stage in the future. He expressed his optimism for her participation in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, highlighting her potential to be a pivotal figure in American basketball. He acknowledged the world’s readiness to embrace talents like Clark, comparing her to other basketball legends such as Diana Taurasi and Breanna Stewart.
Clark’s journey from her stellar college career at Iowa to becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft has been remarkable. Her exclusion from the Olympic roster, however, has raised questions about the selection process and the criteria used to evaluate players. As the debate continues, many look forward to seeing Clark’s future contributions to the sport and hope for her inclusion in upcoming international events.
