Julius Erving has expressed his thoughts on the decision to exclude Caitlin Clark from the USA Basketball’s Olympics roster this year. He believes that while Clark is a talented player, it may be beneficial for her development to sit out this year’s Olympics and focus on her growth in the WNBA. Erving highlighted the physical demands of the international game and the risk of burnout for a young player like Clark who has been continuously competing in the NCAA and WNBA seasons.
Erving emphasized the importance of allowing Clark to progress at her own pace and not rush into such a high-pressure competition. He mentioned that Clark’s future Olympic opportunities are still ahead of her, and taking the time to develop her skills and avoid potential injuries or fatigue is crucial for her long-term success.
While there has been backlash against USA Basketball for not including Clark in the roster, Erving and others have defended the decision, stating that it was made with Clark’s best interests in mind. Despite the disappointment of not making the team, Clark has taken a positive attitude, using the snub as motivation to work harder and strive for future Olympic appearances.
Erving believes that Clark’s dedication to the game and her continuous improvement in the WNBA will prepare her for future Olympic opportunities, particularly when the games return to Los Angeles in 2028. He is confident that Clark will have a successful career and make a significant impact on the sport, regardless of the current setback of not being on the Olympic roster.
Overall, Erving’s perspective on the situation highlights the importance of long-term development and strategic decision-making for young athletes like Caitlin Clark. While the immediate disappointment may sting, the focus on growth and readiness for future opportunities is ultimately what will shape Clark’s career and success in the long run.