Caitlin Clark’s exclusion from the 12-player Team USA roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics has sparked significant controversy and widespread disbelief.
Regarded by many as one of the most exceptional talents to enter the WNBA in recent years, Clark’s absence from the list of top 12 female basketball players eligible to represent the United States at the Olympics has left fans and analysts puzzled.
In response to the backlash, Jen Rizzotti, chair of the selection committee, found it necessary to explain the rationale behind Clark’s omission from the tournament roster.
Rizzotti emphasized that the decision hinged on ‘basketball criteria’ rather than the star power and excitement Clark would bring to the event. However, this explanation has not been universally accepted.
Defining ‘Basketball Criteria’
Rizzotti elaborated on the specific basketball criteria used by the selection committee, seeking to clarify what these criteria entailed.
“We assessed players based on their skill level, positional fit, and their ability to adapt to the international style of play,” Rizzotti informed The Associated Press.
“Certain players fulfilled more of these criteria than others, and sometimes the decision comes down to the specific needs of coach Cheryl Reeve’s strategy.”
The 2024 USA Women’s National Team Roster
The selected roster for the 2024 USA Women’s National Team includes:
- Diana Taurasi (Mercury)
- A’ja Wilson (Aces)
- Breanna Stewart (Liberty)
- Alyssa Thomas (Sun)
- Jewell Loyd (Storm)
- Napheesa Collier (Lynx)
- Kelsey Plum (Aces)
- Jackie Young (Aces)
- Brittney Griner (Mercury)
- Kahleah Copper (Mercury)
- Sabrina Ionescu (Liberty)
- Chelsea Gray (Aces)
This squad, featuring seven players from the Tokyo gold-medal-winning team, is poised to compete for a seventh consecutive gold medal.
Is Clark’s Olympic Aspiration Over?
Clark, along with Brionna Jones of the Connecticut Sun, remains on the alternates list. Her lack of experience with the senior national team contributed to her non-selection, compounded by her absence from the final Olympic camp due to Iowa’s progression to the NCAA Final Four.
Nonetheless, should any squad member face injury or other issues, Clark stands ready to step in, an opportunity she looks forward to.
“If Team USA calls me as a replacement, it’s a fantastic opportunity, but my primary focus is on the Fever. The 12 players chosen are truly outstanding,” Clark acknowledged.
