Republican Senator Ted Cruz criticized the USA Basketball selection committee for not including Caitlin Clark in the 2024 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team. This came after the WNBA witnessed its most-watched game in over two decades, where the Indiana Fever defeated the Chicago Sky. The highly anticipated match featured former college rivals Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, with Clark leading the team with 23 points and nine assists.
The game attracted an average of 2.25 million viewers on CBS, marking a significant milestone for the WNBA. The Fever’s victory peaked at nearly 3 million viewers, showcasing the growing popularity of women’s basketball. Throughout the season, Clark has been a standout player, contributing to several notable achievements for the league.
Despite her impressive performance, Clark was not chosen for the Olympic team, a decision that sparked criticism from Senator Cruz and others. The USA Basketball selection committee chair, Jen Rizzotti, explained that Clark’s omission was based on her limited experience rather than her skills on the court. Rizzotti emphasized the committee’s focus on building the strongest team possible to represent the U.S. in the Olympics.
While Cruz expressed disappointment in the committee’s decision, he commended Clark for her impact on the league. The debate surrounding Clark’s exclusion reflects the complexities of team selection and the various factors that influence such decisions. As the WNBA continues to gain popularity and recognition, the performance of players like Clark highlights the talent and competitiveness within the league.
Overall, the record-breaking game and the subsequent discussions about Olympic team selection underscore the growing interest in women’s basketball and the need to recognize and support the achievements of players at all levels. The spotlight on Clark’s performance serves as a reminder of the talent and potential within the sport, paving the way for future opportunities and advancements in women’s basketball.