aWith the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics fast approaching, it was thought that Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark would not be representing the United States at the tournament. Considering she has only been a pro for a few months, Caitlin Clark was not supposed to be part of the team participating in the Women’s USA 3×3 Olympic Basketball competition. Ironically, an injury to another rookie could give Caitlin Clark a chance to be part of the team, but with some adjustments to the overall roster. If the team makes the right moves to replace that other rookie, Clark could likely be called up to the Olympics.
Another newcomer who could open up Caitlin Clark’s spot
The 3×3 Olympic roster suffered a major blow earlier this month when Cameron Brink of the Los Angeles Sparks suffered a season-ending torn ACL. She was the tallest player on the roster, leaving a big hole on the team. If Team USA were to try to replace Brink, adding a new guard would bring the team to four guards, with Caitlin Clark seeming the most logical choice. The three guards still remaining are Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream, Hailey Van Lith of the TCU Horned Frogs and Sierra Burdick, who was on the 3×3 team in previous tournaments.
In terms of playing time, Caitlin Clark will first need to be selected for the team, but Howard suffered another injury the day after the blink and is in doubt. Clark was recently seen walking in a boot and using a scooter to get around. These two injuries leave plenty of room for Clark, as her playing style is very similar to Howard’s. With just over a month until the Olympics, the U.S. team’s first 3×3 match will be against Germany on July 30. With Howard potentially unavailable, the U.S. team needs to find a replacement for her quickly.
