Caitlin Clark Breaks Silence on Olympic Snub Following Dawn Staley’s Surprising Revelation as Team USA Faces Bold Decision
“If we had to do it all over again, the way she’s playing now, she would be in high consideration,” said Team USA selection committee member Dawn Staley regarding Caitlin Clark. The Indiana Fever rookie has been outstanding in the WNBA, making a compelling case to be part of the traveling squad to the Olympics this year. Her exclusion from the roster shocked the basketball world.
Staley acknowledged that Clark’s current performance is vastly different from how she was playing at the time of selection. She stated that the rookie is now “seasoned” according to the professional basketball stage. After previously discussing the snub without expressing disappointment—only motivation—Clark once again revisited the situation with similar emotions.
“I think the break has been good. I mean, it’s certainly cool. It’s like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you only get every four years. So, I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily bummed. I think it gives you something to work for, for sure, and something to dream of. In four years, you can be there, and four years comes fast,” Clark said as she returned to practice.
The 22-year-old has been consistently on the court since last year, from the NCAA to the WNBA. The last time she had a vacation was in her sophomore year. Thus, when the Olympic break came around, a few days of rest was all Clark was grateful for, which remains her positive takeaway. But the NCAA all-time leading scorer is also thinking ahead.
She added, “It makes me realize how quickly time passes. I feel like I was just a freshman in college, and now I’m already thinking about the next four years. So, it’s clear to me that if you want that to be your dream, you have to start working now.”
Many athletes might publicly express frustration if they didn’t make the team, especially with Clark’s impressive stats. However, the 22-year-old refuses to let the decision hold her down and vows to work even harder to secure her spot in the future.
Will excluding Caitlin Clark cost Team USA?
The United States Women’s Basketball Team started strong at the 2024 Paris Olympics, defeating Japan 102-76, with standout performances from A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart. While the USA shot 54.5% from the field compared to Japan’s 37.8%, Japan’s 38.5% three-point shooting exposed a potential weakness in the American team.
Fans pointed out that Caitlin Clark’s shooting ability could have been invaluable against opponents like Japan. Clark has built a reputation as a sharpshooter, with a 32.7% three-point shooting percentage. While the USA boasts experienced players like Diana Taurasi and Kelsey Plum, Clark’s pure shooting talent and youthful energy could have provided an added advantage. This suggests that the team may have taken a significant gamble by leaving her out. Still, the Americans remain formidable, even without a young star.
