In a twist that has left fans scratching their heads and reaching for their crystal balls, Caitlin Clark is back on the hardwood with the Indiana Fever after being left off the USA women’s basketball team for the Paris Olympics. Yes, you read that right—Team USA decided to skip over the rookie sensation who’s been setting the WNBA ablaze. It’s like passing on prime rib for a side salad.
Clark, who has been breaking records and shattering glass ceilings, seemed unfazed by the snub. Instead of sulking, she’s channeling her energy into the Fever’s practice sessions, with their next game not until August 16. Talk about dedication! She’s got more drive than a Tesla on a full charge.
Spotted on Tuesday at the Fever’s training facility, Clark was all smiles, showing off her Nike Kobe 5 Protro PEs. The sneakers, a harmonious blend of her alma mater’s black and gold with a dash of Fever flair, had her beaming. “It’s like a best of both worlds situation—Fever and Iowa,” Clark quipped, perhaps subtly reminding everyone of her dual prowess. “I’ve got another pair that’s even more Fever, so stay tuned!”
Clark’s playful description of her kicks continued, “They’ve got a bit of Bruce Lee vibes but with a twist. I mean, black and yellow? You can’t go wrong!” Clearly, if basketball doesn’t work out, she might have a future in sneaker design.
Despite the Olympic snub, Clark’s stats are nothing short of stellar. She leads the Fever in points, assists, and steals, averaging 17.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Not bad for a rookie, eh? She’s also locked in a friendly duel with Angel Reese for the Rookie of the Year title, making the WNBA season more riveting than a cliffhanger episode of your favorite drama series.
In case you missed it, Clark dished out 10 assists to lead the WNBA All-Stars to victory over Team USA in an exhibition game before the Olympic break. Talk about adding salt to the wound! The Fever, with an 11-15 record, are looking to bounce back when their season resumes against the 13-12 Phoenix Mercury.
Meanwhile, Team USA has been cruising in the Olympics, recently blowing out Japan 102-76. But one has to wonder, with a talent like Clark left behind, what could have been? For now, though, Clark and her gold-and-black kicks are focused on finishing the season strong, proving that while she might not have an Olympic gold, she’s certainly got the Midas touch on the court.
