USA Basketball Defends Caitlin Clark’s Exclusion from Olympic Roster

USA Basketball has come forward to defend their decision not to include Caitlin Clark on the 2024 Paris Olympics roster. Clark, the No. 1 pick of the 2024 WNBA Draft and the highest scoring player in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history, was noticeably absent from the Olympic roster that was officially announced on Tuesday.

USA Basketball defends Caitlin Clark’s exclusion from Olympic roster

USA Basketball Women’s National Team Committee chair Jen Rizzotti explained that the decision was based on criteria, stating that other players checked more boxes. Rizzotti also mentioned that the selection committee’s goal was to create a cohesive and competitive team, rather than focusing on viewership.

“It would be irresponsible for us to talk about her in a way other than how she would impact the play of the team,” Rizzotti said in an interview with The Associated Press.

USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley expressed optimism about Clark’s future with the organization, stating that she will continue to get better and better. “Really hope that she’s a big part of our future going forward,” Tooley said.

Clark herself was supportive of those who did make the team, saying “I’m excited for the girls that are on the team. I know it’s the most competitive team in the world.” She also mentioned that being left off the team gives her something to work towards.

Caitlin Clark responds to being left off Olympic team

Team USA will be chasing their eighth straight Olympic gold medal in Paris this summer, which would bring their total to 10 if they win. Notable milestones on this year’s roster include Diana Taurasi’s sixth-straight Olympic appearance and Brittney Griner’s first competition abroad since her detainment in a Russian prison in 2022.

Team USA chases eighth straight Olympic gold medal