Las Vegas, Nevada – Rising WNBA star Caitlin Clark faced a setback in her basketball career when she was not chosen for the Team USA roster for the upcoming Paris Olympics, as confirmed on Sunday. Despite this disappointment, Clark remains optimistic and determined, echoing A’ja Wilson’s sentiment that “delayed is not denied.”
During a practice session with the Indiana Fever, Clark displayed resilience and a positive attitude towards the situation. Coach Christie Sides recounted Clark’s response, where she declared, “Hey coach, they woke a monster,” signaling her readiness to rise above the setback and continue working towards her goals.
Clark, the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA, expressed admiration for the players who will represent the United States in Paris. She acknowledged the competitiveness of the selection process and conveyed her support for her peers, emphasizing her excitement to cheer them on as they compete for gold.
Despite not making the initial 12-person roster, Clark remains part of the U.S. national team pool, keeping her eligible as a potential alternate for the Olympics. She appreciated the respectful gesture of receiving a phone call informing her of the decision, recognizing that being part of the Olympic pool presents opportunities for growth and future participation.
Looking ahead, Clark remains focused on her development as a player, with aspirations of potentially making the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. With determination and a positive mindset, she continues to hone her skills and prepare for future opportunities on the national stage.