Stephen A. Smith was in mid-season form Monday when he called out Team USA’s “idiocy” for not including Caitlin Clark on the women’s Olympic basketball team.
“How dare you make this decision,” Smith declared on “First Take.” “It’s stupid.”
Smith was quick to point out that every woman selected for the squad was worthy, saying, “Caitlin Clark doesn’t deserve a spot ahead of any of the players on this roster, OK? … If we’re talking basketball.”
He compared the Clark to former Duke star Christian Laettner, who was added to the 1992 Dream Team. He was the only college player on the roster and was selected ahead of Shaquille O’ Neal.
“He was a two-time national champion,” Smith said. “A Wooden Award winner. And because he was white. He had his own cache. He brought it to the table.”
He also added Laettner could play, too.
“The didn’t need the publicity, but the WNBA does.”
Clark has averaged 16.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 6.3 assists so far in her young professional career with the Fever.
The former Iowa star has brought millions of new fans to women’s basketball. The U.S. has specific selection procedures in determining who is on the national team that include availability, position played and versatility.
Based on her inclusion in the U.S. national team pool, Clark could be chosen as an alternate if one of the 12 players is injured and can’t play. Anyone in the pool is eligible to be an alternate.
“I think it just gives you something to work for,” Clark told reporters Sunday. “It’s a dream. Hopefully one day I can be there. I think it’s just a little more motivation. You remember that. Hopefully when four years comes back around, I can be there.”
Stephen A. Smith’s passionate defense of Caitlin Clark highlights the ongoing debate surrounding Team USA’s selection process for the women’s Olympic basketball team. While Smith acknowledges the talent of every player on the roster, he fervently believes that Clark’s skills and impact on the game should not be overlooked.
Comparing Clark to legendary college player Christian Laettner, Smith emphasizes the need for recognition of exceptional talent regardless of experience. Laettner’s inclusion in the 1992 Dream Team as a college player serves as a compelling example of breaking tradition and embracing potential.
Clark’s impressive performance with the Indiana Fever showcases her ability to make a significant impact on the court, with statistics that speak to her talent and potential. As a former Iowa star, she has already garnered a strong following and bolstered interest in women’s basketball.
While Clark may not have secured a spot on the Olympic roster, her inclusion in the national team pool offers a glimmer of hope for future opportunities. The possibility of serving as an alternate underscores her dedication and determination to excel in the sport.
Ultimately, the selection process for Team USA reflects a complex mix of factors, including availability, position played, and versatility. Clark’s experience serves as both a source of motivation and a reminder of the relentless pursuit of excellence in the game.
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Source: Los Angeles Times (edited)
