Stephen A. Smith Sounds Off on Caitlin Clark’s Olympic Snub: What Team USA is Missing Out On
In a recent fiery tirade, sports commentator Stephen A. Smith did not hold back his frustration over Team USA’s decision to leave WNBA star Caitlin Clark off the Olympic roster. Smith’s critique goes beyond the typical analysis of player performance—he argues that Team USA’s choice could be a monumental mistake, not just for this Olympic cycle but for the future of women’s basketball.
The Phenomenon of Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark is not just another player; she’s a generational talent who has been turning heads and filling seats since her college days. With record-breaking stats and a magnetic presence on the court, Clark has continued her dominance in the WNBA. In a league where some teams struggle to draw crowds, Clark averages an astonishing 16,000 fans per game. Her impact isn’t just seen in the numbers—she’s transforming the way people view women’s basketball.
Take the 2023 WNBA All-Star Game, for example. The event saw a staggering 300% increase in viewership, and Clark was at the center of the attention. She’s not just a scorer but a playmaker with a flair for the dramatic. Her ability to knock down long-range shots and deliver pinpoint passes makes her a highlight reel waiting to happen. When Clark steps onto the court, she doesn’t just play the game—she electrifies it.
The Olympic Missed Opportunity
Stephen A. Smith’s argument is clear: Team USA’s failure to include Clark on the Olympic roster is about more than just a player—it’s a missed opportunity to grow the sport on the world stage. Women’s basketball has struggled with attendance and viewership compared to other sports, but Clark’s star power could change that. Imagine Team USA’s games filled not just with fans, but with the kind of energy that turns a basketball game into an unforgettable event.
Smith emphasizes that this decision isn’t just about winning games—it’s about inspiring the next generation of players and showcasing the sport to a global audience. In today’s world, star power and marketability are crucial to the success of any sports team. Clark embodies both, making her absence from the roster a glaring oversight.
The Broader Implications
The 2019 FIBA World Cup saw Team USA finishing seventh—a shocking result for a team accustomed to dominating the sport. Currently, the attendance figures for Team USA’s games are also worrying. While they draw around 4,500 fans, teams like Spain and China are pulling in over 20,000 per game. This disparity isn’t just about numbers—it’s a message that Team USA needs to hear.
Smith isn’t merely pointing out the obvious lack of fans—he’s warning of the broader implications for women’s basketball. Clark’s ability to captivate audiences isn’t just beneficial for the current Olympic cycle; it’s vital for the sport’s growth. By excluding her, Team USA isn’t just losing a player—they’re missing out on an opportunity to elevate women’s basketball to new heights.
The Changing Landscape of Sports
Smith underscores that the Olympics are evolving. It’s no longer just about what happens on the court—it’s about creating moments that inspire, that people will remember for years to come. Caitlin Clark has the talent and the charisma to create those moments. By sidelining her, Team USA risks missing out on the chance to showcase the very best of women’s basketball to the world.
Even Team USA head coach Dawn Staley hinted that Clark’s chances would have been higher if the team selection had been made later. This comment isn’t just a compliment—it’s an acknowledgment of a missed opportunity.
Moving Forward
Smith’s impassioned plea isn’t just a critique; it’s a call to action. Team USA needs to rethink how they build their roster. It’s not enough to rely on experience alone in today’s sports world. Star power and the ability to market players are just as important. The team needs to include players who can not only perform on the court but also draw in fans and elevate the sport.
Caitlin Clark is more than just a talented basketball player—she’s a game-changer. Her exclusion from the Olympic roster is a missed opportunity that could have long-term repercussions for women’s basketball. As Smith puts it, “The world is watching.” Will Team USA adapt, or will they continue to miss the mark? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Caitlin Clark’s absence will be felt far beyond the Olympic Games.
