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Caitlin Clark Excluded from 2024 Olympic Roster, Shocking Fans

Caitlin Clark, the most popular women’s basketball player in the nation, has been left off the 2024 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball roster. This shocking exclusion comes despite her record-breaking performances and massive fan base, igniting controversy and disappointment among basketball enthusiasts.

 

Clark, known for her thrilling long-range shots and pinpoint passes, has captivated audiences and earned numerous accolades, including WNBA rookie of the month honors. However, USA Basketball has decided not to include her in the Olympic lineup. Social media posts show the success she has had on the court, and leads one to wonder why she was left off the roster:

Clark, currently a standout player for the Indiana Fever, has brought immense attention to women’s basketball. Her selection could have significantly boosted the visibility of the U.S. women’s team at the Olympics, a team that, despite its unparalleled success, often receives less media attention compared to other sports.

 

In a recent game, Clark tied a WNBA rookie record with seven 3-pointers and scored 30 points in front of 20,333 fans in Washington, D.C. This marked the largest WNBA crowd in 17 years, demonstrating her immense popularity and drawing power. Her Indiana Fever’s game attracted more than double the crowd compared to a Chicago Sky game held in the same venue the previous night. Despite holding all the major collegiate scoring records for women’s basketball and leading the NCAA in assists in her final year, Caitlin Clark was omitted from the U.S. Women’s Basketball Team. This announcement has left many fans and analysts baffled. Clark was invited to attend Team USA training camp in April but was unable to participate due to her team’s trip to the NCAA Tournament final.

 

The current roster consists of players many Americans have never heard of. This raises questions about the selection criteria and whether political considerations, such as players’ attitudes towards the National Anthem and their country, played a role in the decision-making process. For months, speculation about Clark’s potential inclusion on the Olympic team has been rife. Lisa Leslie, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, had previously stated that Clark “one hundred percent” deserved a spot on Team USA, reflecting a widely held belief in her right to represent the country.