Caitlin Clark’s omission from the USA Olympics lineup was highly criticized by fans. Many rallied for the Indiana Fever rookie to be included in the team. The argument was that Clark’s presence would help get more eyes on the team.

A day before the USA Women’s team started their campaign, US Olympics and Paralympics Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland was asked about Clark’s snub. Hirshland defended the selections and omissions, saying that she trusts the committee to do what’s best for the program.

“When you look at the whole thing in totality, I would say USA Basketball has had a very disciplined process with people who know more about the sport of women’s basketball than anyone else in the world. And I trust that they know exactly what they’re doing,” Hirshland said.

The common argument used by Clark’s defenders is that her popularity will help further women’s basketball. While that may be true, Team USA’s top priority in the Olympics is winning. They rely more on the chemistry between their core group of players.

That formula has worked for the USA in the women’s game perfectly. They’ve won seven straight golds in the Olympics. Most of the players on the 2024 roster participated in the Tokyo tournament as well.

Clark is talented, yes. But it’s clear that right now, Team USA’s vision does not need her… yet. The Fever star will almost certainly be part of the Olympic team at some point in her career.