Paris Olympics: Kevin Durant Questions Caitlin Clark’s 15-Game WNBA Experience Amid Diana Taurasi’s Selection Saga

Fans were outraged when they found out that Caitlin Clark’s name was not among the 12 female players representing Team USA in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Arguably the most popular player in the WNBA right now, people really wanted to see CC compete in her first big international competition. And fans vented their frustration out on veteran star Diana Taurasi, questioning her selection in the team despite her five previous gold medal wins in the Olympics. Amid the social media outrage, Kevin Durant came to Taurasi’s rescue, revealing why keeping Clark out of the Olympic team was the right decision.

During a recent interview with WSJ News, KD addressed Caitlin missing out on her first Olympics selection. “I still think it’s proper steps you gotta take in our world to be considered an Olympian. I think she’s gonna definitely be on one of these teams going forward,” Durant said. Although Clark has shown great potential early, she has only played 15 pro games yet. This inexperience might be enough to not get her selected, especially when there are more highly accomplished players in the WNBA.

“But right now, there’s better candidates out there I think…But I think if she could continue to keep getting better as a player, her pro, her production on the court gets better, then the league will grow,” KD concluded. While fans claimed that Taurasi might be too old (42) and she is also having a worse season than Clark, her international experience might be too hard to overlook.

Already a 5-time gold winner at the Olympics, this will be Taurasi’s sixth trip to the grand stage. Moreover, she also holds the record for most Olympic titles in US basketball history. With many considering her the GOAT of women’s basketball, it would have been disrespectful to keep her off the team and select Clark instead. However, as KD said, he believes in the young phenom more than ever. That takes us to the next question amidst all the chaos.

What did Caitlin Clark say about not making Team USA?

In only fifteen games, Clark has proven that she might be the next big thing, just like everyone predicted. Averaging over 16 points along with 6.2 assists, CC is turning out to be one of the most versatile guards in the league. While everyone knew of her shooting ability, her defense has surprised many as she is averaging over one block and one steal each night. Meanwhile, Taurasi, in her twentieth season is averaging 16.7 points and nearly 5 rebounds. With similar numbers this season, a case could have been made for either star to be on the Olympics squad. Moreover, both the NBA and WNBA have taken rookies to the Olympics in the past.

Ironically, when Taurasi played in her first Olympics back in 2004, she was the same age as Clark is right now and was also a rookie. Apart from her, future stars like Candace Parker, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart also went international very early in their first few years in their WNBA careers. Meanwhile, NBA legends like Michael Jordan and LeBron James also participated in the Olympics when they were rookies. But Clark was not so lucky as her predecessors.

However, CC didn’t take the snub to her heart because she knew how tough the competition was and she will get this opportunity in the future. “Honestly, no disappointment. It just gives me something to work for… Hopefully, when four years comes back, I can be there. I’m excited for the girls that are on the team.” Taking the humble approach, Clark won everyone’s hearts once again. But she will have to wait at least another four years to start building her international legacy.

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato has to say about Caitlin Clark’s meteoric rise to stardom. Keep checking this space for more such updates.