Normally, taking an extended break towards the end of the season, would hurt any league’s momentum. Caitlin Clark leads the Indiana Fever into what they hope is a strong playoff run. Now, the star guard gets to play for Team USA. With the FIBA World Cup underway, the league’s best players get to play for their home countries.
Granted, the W pays well, much better since the ratification of the collective bargaining agreement. Yet, the most important aspect of the international process has very little to do with money. Clark sat at the podium following a victory over China, offering insight and strong takes on what she believes is her reason for playing.
Team USA Guard Caitlin Clark Outlines Her Approach to Playing Time
In her FIBA World Cup debut, a victory over China, Clark posted a double-double with 14 points and 11 assists. More impressively, this occurred off the bench. While people might expect a superstar to demand playing time, Clark took the opposite approach.
“This is like such a privilege and honor to be here. I don’t worry about all that. Like I’m just excited to go play basketball. I remain confident in what I can do. And that’s one of the first messages Coach Kara told our group when we first got together, when we got here, is like, be confident in your abilities, no matter how many minutes you get.”
Clark is referring to the opening speech delivered by Team USA head coach Kara Lawson. Lawson speaks from experience. She’s won international gold on multiple fronts. First, as a student at the 2001 World University Games. Next, as a player at the 2008 Olympics.
Then, gold medals as both an assistant (2020, 2024 Olympics) and as a head coach (2020 Olympics, in 3×3 women’s basketball). Under those circumstances, Clark remains focused on leading Team USA to bigger things.
“Like no matter what, you gotta remain the same player and bring what you can bring to this team…at the end of the day, we have one goal and that’s to win gold.”
Despite not starting, Clark still played more minutes than any other member of Team USA. What stands out most is the zero turnovers. Clark handled the physicality well and did not wilt under either the moment or pressure.
With gold on her mind, Clark and Team USA look to continue their winning ways. On Sunday September 6, they will play Italy. The next day, Lawson’s group will compete against Czechia. With a strong opening performance, Clark looks to build upon that as the United States moves through the tournament.
