Why Caitlin Clark was REALLY snubbed for Team USA’s Olympic squad as selection chief speaks out on controversial decision

USA Basketball revealed that experience was the key factor in Caitlin Clark not being on the 2024 Paris Olympics roster.

After her popularity in the NCAA translated into a stampede of eyes in the WNBA upon Clark’s entry, many found it shameful that she got snubbed for the upcoming games in France.

Speaking to the Associated Press, selection committee chair Jen Rizzotti acknowledged the noise and pressure to select Clark for the stars and stripes.

‘Here’s the basketball criteria that we were given as a committee and how do we evaluate our players based on that?’ Rizzotti said.

‘And when you base your decision on criteria, there were other players that were harder to cut because they checked a lot more boxes. Then sometimes it comes down to position, style of play for [coach Cheryl Reeve], and then sometimes a vote.’

Jen Rizzotti shared that experience was a key factor that the No 1 pick lacked over others

Returning players include reigning WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, Napheesa Collier, Jewell Loyd, and Brittney Griner.

Meanwhile, Diana Taurasi is gearing up for a record sixth Olympic appearance for the US. Taurasi made her Olympic debut during her rookie year (2004) at the Athens games and will return at 42 to help the nation try for an eighth straight gold medal finish.

Aside from the returners, the committee added Kelsey Plum and Jackie Young, who helped the US win gold in the inaugural 3×3 competition in Tokyo, to the 5-on-5 team. Additionally, first-time Olympians Alyssa Thomas, Sabrina Ionescu, and Kahleah Copper played for the American team that won the 2022 World Cup in Australia.

‘It’s a great mix of talent across the board in terms of individual skill sets,’ USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley said. ‘We have veterans, newcomers, and those in the middle. Good perspective and continuity is such an important thing and is why we’ve been successful in the Olympics.’

Due to her popularity and the eyes she brought to the WNBA, many resented Clark’s snub  

All 12 of the players selected to compete in Paris have senior national team experience 

All 12 players have senior national team experience – a box that Clark has yet to check. However, Tooley acknowledged that Clark could play an important part in the program in the future.

‘She’s certainly going to continue to get better and better,’ Tooley said. ‘Really hope that she’s a big part of our future going forward.’

The selection committee’s criteria include playing ability, position, and adaptability to international play. While many argued that Clark’s notoriety would be beneficial, marketing and popularity have nothing to do with the selection process.

‘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. 

WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson will spearhead the team in Paris this summer 

Players including Kelsey Plum and Sabrina Ionescu will make their Olympic full-court debuts

Team USA are shooting for their eighth straight gold medal finish at the Olympic games 

‘Because it wasn’t the purview of our committee to decide how many people would watch or how many people would root for the US. It was our purview to create the best team we could for Cheryl.’

With all the chatter surrounding what many labeled a ‘controversial’ decision, the No. 1 pick said she will use getting left out as an incentive to improve and make the 2028 Olympic team.

‘I think it just gives you something to work for,’ Clark told reporters after practice Sunday. ‘It’s a dream. Hopefully, one day, I can be there. I think it’s just a little more motivation. You remember that. Hopefully, when four years comes back around, I can be there.’