Caitlin Clark, a rising star, maintains her optimism after missing the Olympics

Disappointed? Not quite. Determined? Absolutely.

Rising WNBA star Caitlin Clark, 22, said she is motivated by her exclusion from the USA squad for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“I was a kid who grew up watching the Olympics, so it’ll be fun to watch them,” Clark shared, according to sports reporter Chloe Peterson. “Honestly, no disappointment. I think it just gives you something to work for. Hopefully in four years, I can be there.”

In the 2024 WNBA Draft, the Indiana Fever guard—who was selected first overall—showed her sportsmanship by congratulating the chosen players. “I am happy for the girls who play on the team. She remarked, “I know it could have gone either way and I know it is the most competitive team in the world.”

The team reportedly includes rising stars like Kelsey Plum and Jewell Loyd alongside veterans like Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner, though the official announcement is not expected until today, June 11.

A Sloppy Beginning But Unwavering Concentration

Clark is having a difficult rookie season, but he still has Olympic dreams. After a game against the Chicago Sky, the young athlete addressed the fact that she had experienced physical play. “With the boys, I played basketball as a child. You have to learn to be strong and assertive because it has always been that way, she told reporters.

Clark has gained widespread recognition in spite of his on-court struggles. The attention has not all been favorable, though. After describing her on his show in an offensive manner, sports analyst Pat McAfee apologized.

Clark remains unfazed.

Her focus is clear – to improve her game and potentially secure a spot on the 2028 Olympic team.