Women’s Basketball in TURMOIL: Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi Reportedly Threaten to Leave Team USA If Caitlin Clark Is Selected

Women’s Basketball in Turmoil: Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi Reportedly Threaten to Leave Team USA If Caitlin Clark Is Selected

In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, reports have emerged claiming that WNBA superstars Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi are considering stepping down from Team USA if rising star Caitlin Clark is included in the 2024 Olympic roster. While the reports remain unconfirmed by official sources, the rumor has ignited fierce debates across sports media and among fans.

Caitlin Clark, the former Iowa Hawkeyes phenom and current Indiana Fever guard, has become a polarizing figure since entering the WNBA. Known for her deep shooting range, flashy playmaking, and massive popularity, Clark has drawn millions of new fans to women’s basketball. Her games have shattered viewership records, making her a household name and bringing unprecedented attention to the sport.

Despite her impact off the court, some veteran players reportedly view Clark’s style and rapid rise with skepticism. According to sources close to USA Basketball, Griner and Taurasi — both longtime national team members and Olympic gold medalists — have voiced concerns over Clark’s potential inclusion, citing “team chemistry” and “readiness for the international level” as primary issues.

Supporters of Griner and Taurasi argue that Team USA should focus on experience, discipline, and proven performance in high-pressure international tournaments. “This isn’t college basketball or a popularity contest,” one anonymous insider reportedly said. “The Olympics demand maturity, cohesion, and respect for the program’s legacy.”

However, critics claim the backlash against Clark is rooted in jealousy or resistance to change. They point to her massive fanbase, undeniable talent, and her ability to generate mainstream attention as reasons why she should be on the team. “Excluding Clark could be a PR disaster for USA Basketball,” said one analyst. “It would send a terrible message to the next generation of stars.”

Neither Griner, Taurasi, nor Clark has publicly addressed the controversy. Team USA officials also have yet to release a final roster, though head coach Cheryl Reeve has stated that selection will be based on performance and team fit, not media hype.

This drama arrives at a pivotal time for women’s basketball. While the sport is growing at an unprecedented pace, internal divisions could threaten the unity needed to maintain international dominance. Team USA has won seven consecutive Olympic gold medals in women’s basketball — a streak built on trust, experience, and teamwork.

Whether Caitlin Clark will make the Olympic team — and whether Griner and Taurasi will follow through on their reported threats — remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: this controversy has pulled back the curtain on the tension between the old guard and the new wave of talent. As the basketball world watches closely, the future of Team USA hangs in the balance.