UPDATE: Fans are expressing outrage after Team USA women’s basketball excluded superstar Caitlin Clark from its training camp graphic, despite her inclusion on the roster. The incident has ignited a backlash on social media as it highlights ongoing concerns about the promotion of women’s basketball.
The training camp, set for December 12-14 in Durham, North Carolina, aims to feature the nation’s top players, including stars like Brittney Griner, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese. However, the graphic released by Team USA showcased players Kahleah Copper, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young, leaving Clark notably absent. This has prompted fans to question the team’s commitment to expanding women’s basketball viewership, particularly after a disappointing showing at the recent Olympics.
Prominent sports writer Christine Brennan voiced her disappointment, stating,
“If USA Basketball really wanted to go all out promoting WBB, they would have added the photo of one other player to this graphic. But no. USA Basketball utterly failed to grow WBB at the 2024 Olympics. This is a continuing story.”
Her comments reflect a broader sentiment among fans that the omission undermines efforts to elevate women’s sports.
Clark, who plays for the Indiana Fever, did not compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Copper, Plum, and Young earned gold. Nonetheless, her exclusion from the promotional material for the camp raises eyebrows, especially given her significant impact on the sport and recent achievements.
As this story develops, fans are urged to follow the conversation online and share their thoughts. The upcoming training camp will be crucial for Team USA as they prepare for future competitions, and how they handle this situation may influence public perception and support for women’s basketball.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding story.
