US Chooses Experience, Versatility for Olympic Women’s Basketball Team, Excludes Caitlin Clark
USA Basketball cited a lack of experience as the main reason Caitlin Clark was not selected for the U.S. women’s Olympic roster announced on Tuesday. The selection committee felt Clark lacked sufficient high-level experience to be part of the team heading to the Paris Games. Seven players from the team that won gold in Tokyo—America’s seventh consecutive Olympic victory—are returning.
Selection committee chair Jen Rizzotti acknowledged external pressure to include Clark, the top pick in the WNBA draft and a fan favorite due to her record-setting college career at Iowa and now with the Indiana Fever. Rizzotti emphasized the committee’s adherence to specific basketball criteria, stating that other players fit more of the criteria needed for the team.
Diana Taurasi, returning for her record sixth Olympics, leads a roster that includes Tokyo returnees Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, Napheesa Collier, Jewell Loyd, and Brittney Griner. New additions include Kelsey Plum and Jackie Young, who helped the U.S. win gold in the 3×3 event at the Tokyo Games, and first-time Olympians Alyssa Thomas, Sabrina Ionescu, and Kahleah Copper.
USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley praised the team’s mix of veterans, newcomers, and players in between, noting the importance of continuity for Olympic success. All selected players have senior national team experience, which Clark does not. Tooley expressed optimism about Clark’s future contributions.
The selection committee focused on playing ability, position, and adaptability to the international game, disregarding factors like marketing and popularity. Rizzotti underscored the committee’s responsibility to build the best team possible based on play impact.
Other notable omissions include Ariel Atkins, Shakira Austin, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, Brionna Jones, Aliyah Boston, and Arike Ogunbowale. These players, along with Clark, could serve as alternates if needed.
Clark plans to use the snub as motivation to improve and aim for the 2028 Olympics, stating that it provides extra drive to achieve her dream.
Brittney Griner, returning to international play for the first time since her detainment in Russia, expressed excitement about representing the USA again. Alyssa Thomas, eager for her Olympic debut, highlighted the honor of joining such a prestigious group.
Taurasi, who turned 42, will set a record for most Olympic appearances in basketball. Rizzotti praised Taurasi’s unique ability to inspire confidence in her teammates, contributing to the team’s success regardless of her role on the court.
The U.S. team will train in Phoenix in July, play an exhibition game against Germany in London, and then head to France. In Paris, they will compete against Japan, Belgium, and Germany in the Olympic pool play.
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