The US Women’s National Basketball team is expected to defend their Gold Medal, but there was controversy over the roster selection. Many were eager to see Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese included, as they are two of the most popular players in the sport. The National Team opted for a veteran squad, which makes sense given the quick transition from College to the WNBA season for Reese and Clark.
However, if the National Team wanted to make a big impact, both Clark and Reese should have been on the Women’s three on three team.
The United States sent Hailey Van Lith, Rhyne Howard, Dearica Hamby, and Cierra Burdick as the three on three team for the Olympics. They went 4-3 in Pool Play before defeating China in the Play-in, but ultimately lost to Spain in the Quarterfinals, failing to defend their Gold Medal.
While this is not a critique of the players chosen, it is evident that Clark and Reese should have been part of the team. The FIBA rule mandating players to participate in three on three events seems unjust as it excluded two of the game’s biggest stars.
The excitement around the potential pairing of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese in the WNBA All-Stars versus team USA game was palpable. Having these two standout players on the same team would have undoubtedly improved Team USA’s performance.
Watching Reese and Clark compete over the last few seasons has generated tremendous interest in Women’s College Basketball and the WNBA. The viewership for the WNBA has surged, particularly in their rookie years. Both players are strong contenders for the Rookie of the Year Award, adding excitement to the sport.
