Stephen A. Smith expressed strong disapproval of Team USA’s decision to omit Caitlin Clark from the women’s basketball roster for the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris, France.
Smith vehemently criticized the decision during his commentary. “This is what I would call ‘The Idiocy of Team USA Women’s Basketball.’ How dare they make this decision. It’s absurd,” he argued.
He further clarified his stance by acknowledging the talent of the selected players but questioned the broader implications of the decision. “Caitlin Clark does not deserve a spot ahead of any of the players on this roster—strictly from a basketball standpoint. But you know we’re not just talking about basketball here.”
Shannon Sharpe shared similar sentiments, questioning the commitment to promoting the sport. “Are we really trying to grow the game? Because Caitlin Clark is the most popular women’s basketball player in the world, and it isn’t even close… So, are we genuinely trying to expand the sport? Or are we just paying lip service?”
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Despite Caitlin Clark’s exclusion, the American women remain strong contenders and are favored to secure the gold medal in Paris.
However, the decision has left many fans and commentators frustrated and questioning the selection criteria.