Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever rookie, expressed her aspirations to play for the U.S. Olympic team in the future, despite not being selected for the upcoming Olympics in Paris next month. Clark acknowledged that not making the roster serves as motivation to work towards her dream of representing her country at the Olympics, with the next opportunity being the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.
Since joining the Fever, Clark has showcased her skills by averaging 16.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists. While she was not included in the current U.S. Olympic roster, notable players like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Diana Taurasi, who is aiming for a record sixth Olympic gold medal, made the cut.
Despite not being selected, Clark expressed her support for her teammates and emphasized her excitement for the competitive nature of the U.S. women's basketball team. She mentioned receiving a respectful phone call informing her of the decision, highlighting the professionalism of the selection process.
As a prominent figure in women's basketball, Clark's inclusion in the U.S. national team pool positions her as a potential alternate in case of injuries among the 12 selected players. The selection criteria for the national team consider factors such as availability, position played, and versatility.
Clark's journey from her record-breaking collegiate career at Iowa to her professional endeavors has significantly contributed to the growth of women's basketball, attracting a new wave of fans to the sport. While she may not be competing in the upcoming Olympics, Clark remains determined to pursue her Olympic dream in the future.
