Lessons from Caitlin Clark's Olympic Snub

As the 2028 Los Angeles Games approach, discussions surrounding the selection of the U.S. Olympic flag football team have sparked debate, particularly regarding the inclusion of NFL players. Critics argue that spots should be earned based on merit rather than awarded based on fame. Doucette, a flag football player, voiced his frustration over the presumption that NFL athletes could easily secure a place on the Olympic team, emphasizing that they have not contributed to the sport's growth leading up to its Olympic debut. The recent U.S. Olympic women's basketball team's gold medal win in Paris serves as a cautionary tale for flag football selectors. The decision to include veteran player Diana Taurasi over rising star Caitlin Clark has drawn scrutiny, especially as the team struggled during critical moments in the gold medal game. Observers noted that the team lacked a player with Clark's unique skills, which could have made a significant difference in their performance. Christine Brennan of USA Today highlighted that Clark's exclusion was partly due to concerns about her potential limited playing time on a competitive roster, as well as the impact her presence might have on fan engagement. This reasoning has been met with skepticism, with many believing that Clark's current form and basketball IQ should have warranted her inclusion. As the conversation continues, parallels are drawn between Clark and NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes, both of whom are seen as pivotal figures for their respective sports in the upcoming Olympic Games.