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Caitlin Clark is taking the high road after missing out on a spot with Team USA for the 2024 Paris Olympics women’s basketball team. The 22-year-old shared her thoughts with Indy Star sports journalist Chloe Peterson on Sunday, June 9, expressing excitement for her fellow athletes and emphasizing her support for the team.
“I’m thrilled for the girls on the team,” Clark stated, acknowledging the highly competitive nature of the selection process. She also mentioned that she grew up watching the Olympics and is looking forward to cheering on her peers as they pursue gold.
Notably, Clark revealed that she felt no disappointment about not making the team, instead viewing it as a source of motivation. “It gives you something to work for,” she said, expressing her dream of one day representing her country at the Olympics and her determination to achieve that goal in the future.
While Team USA has not officially announced its roster for the women’s basketball team, multiple sources reported on Saturday, June 8, that Clark was not among the selected athletes. According to NBC News, the team will include notable players such as Brittney Griner, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart, among others.
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The U.S. women’s 3 x 3 event will also feature Cameron Brink, Rhyne Howard, Hailey Van Lith, and Cierra Burdick, all of whom are part of Clark’s WNBA draft class.
Clark, a standout collegiate athlete for the University of Iowa, received an official phone call from Team USA directors before the news became public. She appreciated their respectful approach in informing her of the decision and acknowledged that they had many calls to make to other athletes as well.
Clark’s impressive basketball career includes leading the University of Iowa’s women’s team to the Final Four earlier this year. She subsequently declared for the WNBA Draft, becoming the No. 1 pick and signing with the Indiana Fever. Reflecting on that moment, Clark shared her gratitude and excitement while acknowledging the hard work and dedication that went into achieving her dream.
