Caitlin Clark won't be playing for Team USA in the Paris Olympics this summer, and the decision to leave her off the roster is already coming under fire.
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Per Shams Charania of The Athletic, Clark is not a member of the veteran-laden 12-woman team. There are many reasons, including that Clark could not attend the USA minicamps because she was still playing in the NCAA tournament with Iowa.
"The roster indicates a preference for veterans with the selection of A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, Alyssa Thomas, Napheesa Collier, Jewell Loyd, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, Sabrina Ionescu, Chelsea Gray and Kahleah Copper," The Athletic reported, citing sources. "The U.S. women have won gold at every Olympics since 1996, and this distinguished roster of All-Stars appears positioned to be a favorite in Paris."
Clark has seen a lot of physical play (and jealousy) since coming to the WNBA as the No. 1 overall pick by the Indiana Fever. She hasn't allowed any of it get to her — as she continues to sell out arenas and become the much-needed face of the league.
She also scored 30 points in Friday's road win over the Washington Mystics. All Clark cares about is the game and improving — that much is obvious. She likely isn't bothered by being left off Team USA and fans shouldn't be, either.
"It's fun to see people screaming about women's basketball," she told reporters.
As for everything else, she said she's staying focused on the task at hand.
"You're starting a new chapter, a new part of your career becoming a professional athlete," Clark said. "Not everything's going to click overnight. Keep working and keep grinding, and it will come over time."
So while a lot of people are fuming over Clark's absence on Team USA, she likely isn't too bothered by it. Team USA sure will take a hit in the ratings department, though.
