Caitlin Clark will not be on U.S. Olympic team.

Caitlin Clark‘s absence from the United States women’s national team for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris has caused quite a stir in the sports world. Barstool founder Dave Portnoy didn’t hold back, calling the decision “the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard” and expressing disbelief at the reports that the Indiana Fever rookie would not make the 12-player roster. He even suggested that those responsible should “take your brain, put it in a museum and study it for how dumb you are.”

Portnoy further criticized the decision in a passionate video rant, expressing his disappointment at the prospect of missing out on watching Clark play. “I’d rather watch grass grow, I’d rather watch paint dry,” he said. “I’d rather watch dirt just be moved around because Caitlin Clark is not on the team. If she’s there, it’s appointment TV.”

Colin Cowherd also weighed in, drawing a comparison between Clark and Christian Laettner, who famously made the 1992 Dream Team straight out of college. Cowherd expressed his disbelief that Clark, who he sees as “TV GOLD,” was not included in the Olympic team roster. He pointed out the potential missed opportunity for revenue generation, given Clark’s popularity.

Justine Termine of Sirius XM highlighted the irony of excluding a player as popular as Clark from a sport that is trying to expand its reach. “Even if she stinks, which she doesn’t, that’s horrible vision,” Termine posted.

Clark’s absence sparks widespread criticism

US soccer legend Alexei Lalas offered a blunt take on the decision, expressing his lack of understanding about the exclusion of Clark from the Olympic team.The collective reaction from figures in the sports world reflects a sense of disbelief and frustration at the decision to leave Clark off the Olympic team roster.

The consensus seems to be that her exclusion represents a missed opportunity to capitalize on her popularity and potential to attract viewership and interest in women’s basketball.

The decision has sparked widespread debate and criticism, with many questioning the reasoning behind not including a player of Clark’s caliber. As the sports world continues to grapple with this surprising development, it’s clear that the impact of this decision extends beyond just the realm of basketball.