The video I shared highlights a debate around Caitlin Clark not being selected for the U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team. It starts with remarks from Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird about the challenges rookies face when transitioning to professional levels, suggesting that while Caitlin Clark has talent, there’s still a learning curve she would need to go through.

The video then critiques Taurasi, pointing out her less-than-stellar performance in the Olympics and questioning the decision to include her over Clark, who could have brought fresh excitement and marketing potential to the team. It suggests that there might be underlying jealousy or resentment towards Clark, noting that despite Taurasi’s legendary status, her performance was lacking during this Olympics.

The video also touches on the marketing and fan engagement aspect, arguing that Clark’s presence could have significantly boosted interest in the team and the sport, and criticizes the decision-makers for not capitalizing on her popularity. The inclusion of Taurasi is framed as a missed opportunity, with the narrator implying that the veteran player’s inclusion came at the cost of the team’s overall potential.

The commentary concludes by questioning the justification for Taurasi’s inclusion, given her age and declining performance, while also reflecting on the broader impact Clark could have had on the team’s visibility and the sport’s growth.

Aug 8, 2021; Saitama, Japan; United States guard Sue Bird (6) and guard Diana Taurasi (12) talk on the bench in the women’s basketball gold medal match during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Summer Games at Saitama Super Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

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Women’s basketball legend Sue Bird has nothing but love and admiration for Caitlin Clark even though she fell short in winning the national championship with the Iowa Hawkeyes.

While all the debate heading to the game was about whether or not Clark needs a title to be in the GOAT conversation, Bird basically refuted those talks and gave Clark her well-deserved recognition.

Sue Bird’s Powerful Message for Iowa Hawkeyes Star Caitlin Clark

November 11, 2023; San Diego, California, USA; Former professional basketball player Sue Bird after the NWSL Championship match between OL Reign and New Jersey/New York Gotham FC at Snapdragon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
After the Hawkeyes’ 87-75 loss to the Gamecocks, Bird took to X (formerly Twitter) to give Clark and Iowa their flowers. While all the focus has been on South Carolina as they completed their perfect season, the Seattle Storm legend made sure to not forget the fallen competitors.

Bird highlighted how much Clark has done for the game, and she shared her excitement about what’s next for the sharpshooter now that her Iowa career has come to an end.

The WNBA great also shared that Clark undoubtedly had one of the greatest collegiate careers ever, and ring or not, no one can take that away from her. She left a lasting legacy that will forever be remembered in college hoops, and one that will always be talked about when discussing the best players to ever suit up in the NCAA Tournament.

“What a season [Iowa] and what a career [Caitlin Clark]. We undoubtedly watched one of the all time best college careers….ring or not. Thank you for helping elevate our sport with your play, your poise, and of course your logo 3’s! I can’t wait to watch you at the next level!” Bird exclaimed.

Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark (22) celebrates a 3 point basket by Iowa Hawkeyes guard Gabbie Marshall (24) during the NCAA Tournament championship basketball game at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, Sunday, April 7, 2024 in Cleveland.
The multi-time Olympic gold medalist certainly couldn’t have said it any better. And it sure means a lot to see her make that statement.

Clark may have not won a national title, but she changed the game forever and brought it to the forefront. That alone is a massive achievement, especially since many have tried to shoulder being the face of the sport but failed time and time again.

It’s Not Only Sue Bird Who Praised Caitlin Clark

Aug 12, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Seattle Storm guard Sue Bird (10) holds up the trophy after defeating the Connecticut Sun during the Inaugural WNBA Commissioners Cup Championship Game at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
For what it’s worth, several other greats showed their admiration for Caitlin Clark. One of those is Magic Johnson, with the NBA legend calling the Iowa Hawkeyes guard the “catalyst for growing women’s basketball.”

“Caitlin Clark’s extraordinary play this season has been the catalyst for growing women’s basketball, with record-breaking viewership throughout the tournament. She deserves her flowers and I want to congratulate her on an incredible collegiate career!” Johnson added.

Clark’s impact cannot be overlooked. And while she’s moving on, expectations remain that she’ll continue to be the face of women’s basketball in general.

With what she showed throughout her Iowa career, there’s no doubt that she’s more than capable of wearing that crown.
Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark (22) passes the ball during the NCAA Tournament championship basketball game at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, Sunday, April 7, 2024 in Cleveland.