PARIS, France – The Women’s Olympics in Paris this summer will not feature rising basketball star Caitlin Clark on Team USA’s roster. Despite her outstanding performance in leading the University of Iowa to consecutive national championship games and being the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft this year, USA Basketball decided not to include Clark in the 12-player lineup for the upcoming competition.

At 22, Caitlin Clark has made a name for herself in the world of basketball, becoming a prominent figure in the sport. However, she was left off the roster, which is predominantly veteran-based and aims to secure the team’s eighth consecutive gold medal. The team will be led by notable players such as five-time gold medalist Diana Taurasi, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart.

Clark’s exclusion from the roster has sparked discussions, especially as she has been a standout player since entering the WNBA with the Indiana Fever. Despite some struggles in adjusting to the professional level, Clark has been a key player for her team, showcasing her scoring abilities, passing vision, and all-around contribution to the game.

The young player’s entry into the WNBA has brought significant attention to the league, resulting in increased television ratings, attendance, and merchandise sales. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledges the impact Clark has had on the league, highlighting the attention she has garnered and the challenges she has faced on the court.

Although Clark was not part of the final pre-Olympics training camp due to her commitments with Iowa in the Final Four, she has previously represented her country in various youth competitions. The Americans have maintained a strong presence in women’s basketball at the Olympics, having won gold since 1996, and are expected to be frontrunners in the upcoming events.

As Team USA prepares to face Japan in their opening game on July 29, the absence of Caitlin Clark from the roster has raised questions about the selection process and the dynamics within the team. Despite the disappointment of not being able to compete in the Olympics, Clark’s impact on the sport and her potential for future competitions remains a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike.