Caitlin Clark Isn’t on Team USA… what’s the problem?
- Micahya Costen
- Jun 9, 2024
- 2 min read
(Image created with Wix Ai image creator)
The 2024 Paris Olympics women’s basketball roster has been released, and there is a big issue… or seemingly issue with “fans” who’re upset over the fact that rookie Caitlin Clark isn’t on the roster.
The argument that seems to arise is “she’s who the fans want to see,” “she’s the best rookie to showcase down there,” etc… the thing is, it’s not just about showcasing and putting on a show just because newcomer and very talented player Clark is now in the league.
The object of the games (any of the games) in the Olympics is to win and get gold, it’s not “just” to advertise and entertain one fan base, if that particular person hasn’t earned their spot yet.
This is not to say that Clark isn’t doing well. Being the first player in WNBA history with 100 pts and 75 ast through her first 12 games in her pro career is really impressive, and should be commended. However, that’s not enough to take the spots of any of the 12 veterans that have already fought and worked to get on the team.
As a rookie, Clark will have ample amount of opportunities to make many of the future Olympic teams after this year, with higher statistics, more playing time and more games under her belt to prove that she belongs there in the following years.
This is her first year, let her take her time, let her get used to the league as a rookie just as others had to do. Don’t make the situation bigger than what it is, or was before Clark ever got to the league, before people even started watching her due to last year’s national championship game against LSU.
If you’re going to be a fan, and just a Clark fan, that’s fine and everyone’s entitled to have their favorite player to follow, but look at the glass half full instead of half empty. Clark not playing on the USA team is not a punishment, and frankly shouldn't have been a discussion. One doesn't get entitled to play because of the hype they get and the endorsements they’ll bring in. Those are supposed to be in addition to skill, playing time, experience and of course the fan base.
The gist is this, Clark is great, exceptional! No one’s taking that away from her. But, I’m sure she would agree that she’d rather punch her ticket to the Olympics on her own merit and not just as an automatic cash-grab, because that’s the hard worker that she is, and that so-called “fans” love about her. Love her as she keeps that mentality throughout, and not pick and choose when it’s convenient.
