The snub Caitlin Clark received by USA Basketball on the road to the Paris 2024 Olympics continues to cause controversy. Head coach Dawn Staley recently said that if the selection were to take place now, the Indiana Fever rookie would surely get a spot. However, always controversial analyst Skip Bayless has a very different opinion.

Staley, head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, was part of the committee that chose the players who are competing at Paris 2024. The panel’s decision caused great controversy, but the general response was disbelief at Clark’s absence.

The coach of the reigning NCAA champions has defended the committee’s decision. Even now, she justified the determination by saying that if, a few months ago, Clark had performed the way she does now, she would have surely earned a spot on the Olympic team.

Always one to stir up controversy, Bayless countered Staley’s remarks, saying Clark has not improved her game.

Bayless’ take

On the most recent episode of “Undisputed,” the show Bayless hosts on ESPN, the analyst said, “Over the last three-point game, she has been a horrible three-point shooting swap.” Bayless explained that the Fever guard has gone “0-for-7 to 3-for-8 over the last few games.”

So far this regular season, Clark is shooting 32.7 percent from three-point range. In the six games she played in July, her shooting dropped to 27.3 percent from three-point range. In total, he has scored 71 of 217 attempts, averaging 2.7 on 8.3 attempts from beyond the three-point arc.

Bayless is an expert at causing controversy, while Staley seems to have some bias against Clark. The truth is that the Fever’s rookie star was left out of the Olympic Games, and nothing that is said now will change that.

The only thing Clark can do now is focus on her efforts to earn a spot on the team that will host the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

 

Skip Bayless, a well-known figure in sports journalism and broadcasting, has made a significant impact over his extensive career. Starting out as a sports journalist, Bayless initially earned recognition for his insightful writing at major publications such as the *Chicago Tribune* and the *Dallas Morning News*. His keen analysis and commentary on sports topics set the stage for his future media ventures.

Bayless’s television career began at ESPN, where he appeared on “SportsCenter” and contributed to “ESPN Radio.” His tenure at ESPN helped him build a reputation for his bold opinions and engaging commentary. His most notable role came as a co-host on ESPN’s “First Take,” alongside Stephen A. Smith. On this platform, Bayless became famous for his controversial and provocative takes, further cementing his status as a prominent sports commentator.

In 2016, Bayless made a high-profile move to Fox Sports, where he became a central figure on “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed,” a debate show co-hosted with Shannon Sharpe. This shift allowed Bayless to continue delivering his distinctive and often polarizing views on sports issues.

Beyond his television career, Bayless has authored several books and is known for his engaging and sometimes contentious public persona. His career continues to influence sports media with his strong opinions and dynamic presence.

Caitlin Clark, the star guard for the Iowa Hawkeyes, is at the center of ongoing debates regarding her talent and impact on women’s college basketball. Clark’s performance has generated widespread discussion among fans, analysts, and commentators, touching on several key areas:

Exceptional Skill and Performance: Clark’s remarkable abilities on the court have earned her widespread acclaim. Known for her impressive scoring, exceptional playmaking, and ability to perform under pressure, she has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in the history of women’s basketball. Her standout statistics and game-changing moments continue to highlight her prowess.

Impact on Women’s Basketball: Proponents argue that Clark’s style of play, which includes deep three-point shots and a high basketball IQ, is revolutionizing women’s college basketball. Her influence is credited with increasing the sport’s visibility and inspiring aspiring players. Supporters believe her presence is raising the profile of women’s athletics.

Criticism and Skepticism: Despite the praise, some critics question whether Clark’s success is indicative of a broader trend or a reflection of the current competitive landscape. There is debate over whether her achievements are a result of exceptional talent or if they should be contextualized within the evolving standards of the sport.

Media Coverage and Public Perception: The extensive media focus on Clark’s career has sparked discussions about the representation of female athletes in sports media. Critics and supporters alike are analyzing whether the coverage of Clark reflects a growing recognition of women’s sports or if it represents a more targeted media narrative.

As Caitlin Clark continues to make headlines, the debates surrounding her talent and impact remain a focal point in conversations about the future and visibility of women’s basketball.