When USA Basketball revealed its official roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Caitlin Clark’s name was nowhere to be found, the sports world exploded with shock, debate, and disappointment. But one voice in particular rose above the noise—Stephen A. Smith.

Never one to hold back, the outspoken ESPN analyst delivered a scathing response to Clark’s omission. And in true Stephen A. fashion, he made it clear this wasn’t just a snub—it was a major mistake.

Stephen A. Sounds Off: “It’s BAD for the game.”

On ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith didn’t mince words. He acknowledged that Team USA is loaded with talent, but questioned the wisdom behind leaving off the most popular player in women’s basketball.

“This is not about who’s the best player right now—it’s about what’s best for the game,” he said. “And what’s best for the game is Caitlin Clark in Paris.”

He emphasized that Clark’s massive fan base, media draw, and cultural impact made her omission not just questionable, but damaging to the momentum women’s basketball has been building.“You Don’t Grow the Game by Leaving Her Home”

Stephen A. doubled down, saying Team USA missed a rare opportunity to boost global interest in women’s basketball by leaving Clark off the roster.

“The WNBA has been starving for mainstream attention for years, and now you’ve got a superstar who’s selling out arenas, breaking TV ratings, and you don’t take her? That’s not just tone-deaf—it’s a business failure.”

According to Smith, it wasn’t just about merit—it was about momentum. Clark’s inclusion would have drawn millions of new eyes to the Olympics. Her absence? A marketing misfire.

He Acknowledged the Politics at Play

Stephen A. didn’t deny that Team USA has a system. He acknowledged that coaches often lean toward veteran players and proven chemistry. But he argued that Clark has already proven herself—by dominating college, adjusting quickly to the WNBA, and handling pressure like a pro.

“They’re saying she hasn’t earned it. Excuse me? She earned more for the game in one season than some have in their whole careers.”

He called the decision a “disservice” to both Clark and the future of women’s basketball.

Clark’s Graceful Reaction vs. Stephen A.’s Passion

While Stephen A. was fiery, Caitlin Clark responded with calm and class, saying she supports Team USA and will be cheering them on from home. Her humility only added fuel to Stephen A.’s argument—showing that she’s a team player and a professional, on and off the court.

“That’s why she SHOULD be on the team!” Stephen A. added. “She’s talented, she’s mature, and she’s a once-in-a-generation figure.”

Conclusion: A Missed Moment, Loud and Clear

Stephen A. Smith’s powerful response captured what millions of fans were already feeling: Caitlin Clark deserved a shot. Not just for what she’s done on the court, but for what she means to the game.

His final message was clear:

“Team USA might win gold without her—but they lost something bigger when they left her behind.”