As we gear up for the Olympics starting this Friday, July 26, one of the most buzzed-about topics in women’s basketball is the absence of Caitlin Clark from the USA Women’s National Team roster. It’s been over a month since the 12-player list was announced, and Clark’s omission continues to be a major talking point, overshadowing even the players who made the cut.

Clark’s impact on the sport is undeniable. Her presence has significantly boosted TV ratings, merchandise sales, and game attendance. Some believe her exclusion is because the committee was worried she might not secure major rotation minutes in a team already stacked with talent. There’s also speculation that Minnesota Lynx’s (16-8) head coach, Cheryl Reeve, might have influenced the decision. Recent comments from Reeve add fuel to this theory. During the Lynx’s home loss to the Indiana Fever, fans were more vocal in their support for Clark, a Minnesota native, than for the home team. Reeve’s comments post-game hinted at some tension.

The team was chosen by the USA Basketball Women’s National Team Committee, chaired by Jen Rizzotti, and includes Dawn Staley from the University of South Carolina, Bethany Donaphin from the WNBA, and Dan Padover from the Atlanta Dream. While the coach always has a say in player selection, it’s evident that Reeve’s input might have played a role here. While Team USA is heavily favored to win gold, Reeve’s future with the team might hinge on how she handles media questions about Clark’s absence during the Olympics. Of course question about her will come.

In a sport that doesn’t enjoy the same Olympic popularity as its male counterpart, Clark’s inclusion could have drawn unprecedented attention to women’s basketball around the globe. With seven consecutive gold medals and little competition compared to the men’s rapidly globalizing game, bringing Clark along would have been a strategic move. However, what’s done is done, and we can look forward to seeing Clark possibly lead the team in Los Angeles 2028, perhaps with a championship already under her belt.