Caitlin Clark could make US Olympic debut; here’s how

Could Caitlin Clark, the sensational Indiana Fever star guard and odds-on favorite to win the WNBA Rookie of the Year award opposite Chicago Sky power forward Angel Reese, represent the the US Women’s Basketball Team for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games?

Here’s what we know.

Will Caitlin Clark be in the Olympics?

Opening ceremonies for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games is Friday, July 26, and the US Women’s National Basketball Team begins play on Monday, July 29.

Unfortunately for Clark and her fans, the rookie phenomenon was not selected to the women’s team.

Clark had a difficult hill to climb to make the stacked women’s squad, which already includes Brittney Griner, Sabrina Ionescu, Diana Taurasi and A’ja Wilson.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) rushes up the court Friday, July 12, 2024, during the game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Indiana Fever defeated the Phoenix Mercury, 95-86.

All hope isn’t lost for Clark fans to see her suit up for the American women, however.

Sports Business Journal notes that Clark is named the first alternate for the women’s team, which means Clark would be the first player selected if any player on the team suffers an injury and cannot proceed.

The US Men’s National Basketball Team dealt with a similar situation, as the team replaced injured L.A. Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard with Boston Celtics forward Derrick White.

After Clark didn’t make the national team but before the alternates were selected, there was talk of Clark joining the Italian national team. However, Clark recently shot down the idea of playing for a different country.

Damon C. Williams is a Philadelphia-based journalist reporting on trending topics across the Mid-Atlantic Region.