Caitlin Clark Finds No Solace in All-Star Victory over Team USA

Despite leading Team WNBA to a win over Team USA in the WNBA All-Star Game, Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark expressed no sense of vindication following her omission from the U.S. women's basketball Olympic team.

Former Iowa standout Caitlin Clark has stated that she harbors no feelings of "vindication" after Team WNBA defeated Team USA in the WNBA All-Star Game, despite the widespread perception that the game presented an opportunity for Clark to seek retribution for her surprise snub from the U.S. women's basketball Olympic team.

"No, I mean they're really good," Clark said with a grin. "They have plenty of talent on that team. It was the same four years prior – I'm pretty sure Team WNBA beat Team USA [and] they were perfectly fine in the Olympics."

Caitlin Clark Finds No Solace in All-Star Victory over Team USA

Team USA did endure a loss prior to their gold medal run at the 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. However, this year's defeat came in the wake of a media storm sparked by the outrage of WNBA fans, particularly those of Caitlin Clark, over her exclusion from the Paris squad.

Undeterred by the setback, Clark believes that Team USA's loss in the All-Star Game serves as a testament to the caliber of talent within the WNBA.

Caitlin Clark Finds No Solace in All-Star Victory over Team USA

"I think, if anything, it shows how good this league is. It shows how much talent is in this league and how you have to show up and prepare every single night because there are a lot of players that aren't even here on All-Star weekend that can be here and be in these moments too."

Clark continued, "I think for myself, from my standpoint, this is a great opportunity and will help prepare them for Paris and I'm going to be supporting them and cheering them on. I love the Olympics, I've loved the Olympics ever since I was a young kid and they're going to be just fine. They're going to win gold and dominate so I'm not worried."

Caitlin Clark Finds No Solace in All-Star Victory over Team USA

While the disappointment of missing out on the Olympics is a letdown for Clark, it also brings with it a welcome respite from a grueling schedule that included a championship run in her final year at Iowa and her ascent to the NCAA Division 1 all-time leading scorer.

"Such a fun first All Star experience in Phoenix!! The fans and city were amazing…," Clark said in a post on Twitter. 

"Now time for some rest and relaxation :) see you all in a month." 

Clark's absence from the Olympic team has ignited a debate about the selection process and the need for greater transparency and consistency in player evaluation. Nevertheless, Clark remains focused on her future in the WNBA and expressed unwavering support for Team USA's quest for victory in Paris.