UPDATE: Fans are expressing outrage after Team USA women’s basketball omitted rising star Caitlin Clark from its training camp promotional graphic, despite her inclusion on the official roster. The training camp, scheduled for December 12-14 in Durham, North Carolina, will feature some of the top talents in women’s basketball, yet Clark’s absence from the graphic has sparked a wave of criticism online.
This incident comes at a crucial time for women’s basketball, as the sport seeks to expand its viewership following a disappointing performance during the 2024 Olympics. Fans and analysts alike are questioning Team USA’s commitment to promoting the game, particularly with Clark’s notable popularity and skill.
The roster for the upcoming training camp includes notable players like Brittney Griner, Angel Reese, and Kelsey Plum. However, the exclusion of Clark—who has become a household name as a star for the Indiana Fever—has led to significant backlash. Critics highlight that while players like Kahleah Copper and Jackie Young were featured in the graphic, Clark was entirely left out.
“If USA Basketball really wanted to promote women’s basketball and attract new fans, they would have included Caitlin Clark in this graphic,” stated sports author Christine Brennan. “This is a continuing story of how USA Basketball has failed to grow the sport at the Olympics.”
Fans took to social media to voice their disappointment, with many emphasizing Clark’s immense impact on the game and her potential to draw new viewers. The absence of her image in a key promotional material is seen as a missed opportunity to capitalize on her star power.
The training camp is an essential step for Team USA as it prepares for future international competitions, making Clark’s omission even more perplexing. With ongoing discussions about the visibility of women’s sports, this incident raises critical questions about how national teams promote their athletes.
As Team USA gears up for the training camp, fans are left wondering if this oversight will be addressed, and whether Clark will receive the recognition she deserves. The situation continues to develop, and many are eager to see how Team USA will respond in the coming days.
Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story and the potential implications for Team USA women’s basketball as they prepare for the future of the sport.
