Caitlin Clark’s removal from the women’s Team USA Olympic squad has sparked outrage among some. Many say Clark, a rookie in the WNBA, is not ready to compete at the Olympic level, where she would be one of only 12 roster members.
Others say Clark’s removal is ludicrous, given the fame she has brought to women’s basketball since becoming a sensation with the Iowa Hawkeyes, as well as her infinite shooting range.
Clark didn’t seem to mind being left out, and Phoenix Suns player and three-time Olympic gold medalist Kevin Durant believes she doesn’t belong on the team. At least, not yet.
“I still believe there are certain milestones you must complete in this environment to be labelled an Olympian. And I think (Clark) will probably be on one of these teams in the future, but I believe there are better prospects out there right now.”
Kevin Durant explains why Caitlin Clark should not be on the Team USA team.
Even Durant’s remark, in which he noted twice that he “thinks” there are better options, did not sound fully certain. However, given Team USA’s strong veteran presence, it’s difficult to argue against their selection. Here is the current Team USA women’s basketball roster:
A’ja Wilson
Breanna Stewart
Diana Taurasi
Brittany Griner
Alyssa Thomas Napheesa Collier
Jewell Loyd
Kelsey Plum
Jackie Young
Sabrina Ionescu
Chelsea Grey
Kahleah Copper
Since 1996, the women’s Team USA squad has won a gold medal every year they compete.
While Durant does not believe Clark is ready for that degree of international attention just yet, he feels it is only a matter of time.
“Caitlin just needs to keep showing up every day.” The WNBA is doing an excellent job of highlighting her. I watch her games on ESPN every other day. I’m hearing conversations all around her, no matter what they’re talking about; there’s a lot of conversation going on about the game right now, which is also fantastic.”
“I believe that if she improves as a player and produces more on the court, the league will grow.” There are so many talented players in our league, and Caitlin has helped shed that light on them, which will help the league expand over time.”
Durant on Clark, continues.
Durant, the all-time highest scorer for the men’s Team USA basketball team, is no stranger to Olympic competition. Clark will eventually have her moment, but it does not appear that it will be later this year.
