During a recent episode of ESPN’s ‘Around The Horn,’ writer David Dennis Jr. from ESPN and Andscape addressed a controversial topic involving supporters of basketball player Caitlin Clark.
Dennis discussed the backlash following Clark’s omission from the U.S. Olympics roster for the upcoming Games in Paris, suggesting that the debate has transcended mere sports analysis.
Dennis pointed out that while there is a legitimate sports discussion to be had about whether Clark should have been included on the team, the conversation has unfortunately been co-opted by some individuals with ulterior motives. He expressed concern about “people on the fringe”—not just internet trolls, but also politicians and pundits—who are using the situation to express their disdain for black women, particularly those in the WNBA.
According to Dennis, these fringe elements are using Caitlin Clark as a symbol to challenge the composition of Team USA, specifically targeting the representation of black women.
He worries about the negative impact this could have on those athletes during the summer games.
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By labeling these critics as “so-called patriots” on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Dennis is specifically calling out a subset of white Americans who are upset about Clark’s exclusion from the Olympic team, suggesting that their grievances might be rooted in deeper social and racial issues.
The decision to omit Caitlin Clark from the U.S. Olympic roster for the Paris Games stands as a perplexing oversight in contemporary sports history.
With Clark’s inclusion, USA women’s basketball had a prime opportunity to elevate the sport on a global stage, showcasing one of the sport’s biggest superstars to international media and fans.
Instead, the decision to leave her out—fearing she might be a distraction rather than a boon—represents a significant missed opportunity to enhance the game’s appeal and visibility worldwide.
