Caitlin Clark Remains on Olympic Alternate List

Despite not making the initial 12-player roster, Caitlin Clark could still represent the U.S. in basketball at the Paris Olympics.

Caitlin Clark, the highly touted rookie for the Indiana Fever, has emerged as the top alternate for the U.S. Olympic women's national basketball team in case of injuries, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Clark, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft, has been a sensation since leading Iowa to back-to-back national championship games and setting the NCAA all-time scoring record. Her exclusion from the initial Olympic roster sparked controversy, but she is now in line to be added if necessary.

"I'm told Caitlin Clark and Brionna Jones are atop the alternates list for Team USA if there is needed to be a replacement," Charania said on FanDuel TV's "Run It Back."

Jones is a two-time All-Star who has spent her entire eight-year career with the Connecticut Sun. She is averaging 13.3 points and 4.7 rebounds per game this season.

Clark's Olympic snub was met with surprise and disappointment, given her exceptional talent and popularity. She had the option to attend the national training camp in Cleveland, but Iowa advanced to the Final Four, preventing her from participating.

Despite the setback, Clark remains optimistic about her Olympic aspirations. "I'm excited for the girls who are on the team," she said. "I know it's the most competitive team in the world and I know it could've gone either way – me being on the team, me not being on the team. So, I'm excited for them. I'm going to be rooting them on to win gold."

Clark's presence on the alternate list adds intrigue to the Olympic picture. Eight of the 12 roster spots have already been filled by WNBA veterans Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, Breanna Stewart, A'ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, Jewell Loyd, Chelsea Gray, and Kelsey Plum.

Jackie Young, Alyssa Thomas, Sabrina Ionescu, and Kahleah Copper will make their Olympic debuts.

The U.S. team is considered the heavy favorite to win its eighth consecutive gold medal in Paris. Clark's experience and talent would be a valuable addition if she is called upon to join the roster.

WNBA betting odds have adjusted in the wake of Clark's Olympic exclusion. Her Rookie of the Year odds have improved, as she is now seen as having more opportunities to shine for the Indiana Fever.

Clark's journey towards Olympic glory is far from over. As she continues to develop her game and prove her worth, she remains a prime candidate to represent the United States in the future.