WNBA insider Christine Brennan openly criticized Team USA coach Cheryl Reeve for her handling of Caitlin Clark after Clark was left off the 2024 Olympic roster. Brennan discussed the controversy during a recent episode of the Adam Gold Show, highlighting Reeve’s public comments on social media as inappropriate given Clark’s status in the selection pool. The issue centers around the broader debate over the Caitlin Clark Olympic snub and Team USA criticism stemming from it.
Brennan described Reeve’s behavior as “stunningly bad,” referring to tweets that appeared to blame Clark for the lack of national broadcast coverage of her games, specifically on Minnesota-based media. Brennan expressed disbelief that the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee and USA Basketball allowed such conduct, emphasizing that it should have been curtailed immediately.
Clark’s Strong WNBA Performance Contrasts With Olympic Team Exclusion
Despite Team USA’s gold medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Caitlin Clark’s exclusion remains a topic of controversy. Clark, a standout player for the Indiana Fever, posted impressive averages last season, including 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game. Given her rapid progress from college basketball to the professional level, many experts and fans had anticipated her being a lock for the Olympic squad.
Caitlin Clark’s Perspective on Being Overlooked for Team USA
Though many expressed outrage over Clark’s omission, the player herself has remained grounded and optimistic. In an interview with ESPN in June 2024, Clark stated she felt “Honestly, no disappointment,” regarding not making the Olympic team. Instead, she views the experience as added motivation to continue improving and aims to secure a spot on the next Team USA roster.
“Honestly, no disappointment. It just gives me something to work for; it’s a dream. Hopefully one day I can be there. I think it’s just a little more motivation. You remember that. Hopefully when four years comes back around, I can be there.” —Caitlin Clark
Looking Ahead: Clark’s Continued Growth and Upcoming Games
Clark has progressed markedly since her rookie year, currently averaging 21.3 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game this season. Her upward trajectory suggests future selections to Team USA are likely. Meanwhile, she prepares for an upcoming matchup against the Golden State Valkyries at Chase Center, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to excelling on the court.
The ongoing debate regarding the Caitlin Clark Olympic snub and Team USA criticism illustrates broader tensions in the selection process, while raising questions about coaching conduct in public forums. Clark’s resilience and performance will likely influence future decisions, keeping her in the conversation for major international competitions.