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"Team USA missed an opportunity to elevate the profile of women" - Stephen A. Smith critical of Caitlin Clark's Olympic snub even after gold medal win
Caitlin Clark has lived up to the massive expectations placed on her shoulders. She has been electric on the court with her excellent 3-point shooting and playmaking. After Team USA secured another Olympic gold medal, Stephen A. Smith couldn't help but feel that they missed a golden opportunity to strengthen the profile of women's basketball.
The rise of women's basketball with viewership has steadily grown over the years, courtesy of iconic athletes who contributed to the success of the game. The Indiana Fever rookie's arrival has only further added to that legacy.
During his latest "The Stephen A. Smith Show" episode, the sports analyst highlighted the importance of marketing the sport in this day and age.
"(3:51) ... There were approximately 13,000-plus people that showed up for Team USA's games for the women," Smith said. "Box office matters. ... Now, you came home with the gold. You handled your business. ... But when you talk about marketing the sport, I think Team USA missed an opportunity to elevate the profile of women's excellence in the sport of basketball."
Caitlin Clark has been one of the most popular athletes due to how electric she makes everything look on the basketball court. She had some struggles in adjusting to the professional league during her first few games but settled down confidently as of late.
Similar to the men's Olympic basketball team, they were also precise in choosing the proper players that best fit the needs of the roster. However, Smith argued that the women's team could have inserted Clark into the roster while making sure that the unit had all the right pieces to contend for another gold medal.
Playing on the international stage with several fans all eagerly waiting to watch their favorite basketball players, adding the most-talked-about WNBA rookie would have strengthened the brand and its following.
Caitlin Clark talks working toward making the Team USA roster in the future
Despite not being included in this year's USA Basketball team, the Fever guard held her head high, as per ESPN's Myron Medcalf.
"That's what you dream of as a young kid," Clark said. "Getting to represent your country. And, obviously, me and [Boston] having the experience of playing for the junior national team, we know how fun that is and how cool that is to wear 'USA' across your chests. ... It gives you something to work for, something to dream for."
With how many talented athletes there are in the WNBA, there will be some players who won't make the cut, despite being an excellent addition. Despite only being a rookie in the league, Caitlin Clark has been a thrilling viewing experience on the court.
The players included in this year's Team USA have all gone through a similar experience as Clark. However, recognition doesn't often happen overnight, which can be said for making it on USA Basketball.
This is the kind of mindset that Caitlin Clark is running with as she looks forward to the next opportunity to be selected for the team.
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