Caitlin Clark and Sky sensation Angel Reese are expected to be left off the Team USA women’s basketball roster for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. The main roster reveals a strong preference for seasoned pros with the selection of Alyssa Thomas, Breanna Stewart, Brittney Griner, Kahleah Copper, Kelsey Plum, Napheesa Collier, A’ja Wilson, Sabrina Ionescu, Jewell Loyd, Jackie Young, Diana Taurasi, and Chelsea Gray.

While spectators are ecstatic to welcome a distinguished roster of All-Stars, Chelsea Gray’s selection has raised many eyebrows. She hasn’t played any WNBA games since last season’s Game 3 of the finals, wherein she suffered a lower leg injury. How, then, is she selected for Team USA?

Despite her injury, Gray secured her spot on the Olympic team by participating in the US Olympics training camp in Cleveland. If she’s healthy, she will be the point guard for the Olympics this year. But what if she isn’t? Caitlin Clark could be her potential replacement. However, this substitution is only possible before the event begins, as no changes can be made once the Olympics start, even if a player gets injured.

As of now, there’s no update from Gray regarding her availability, fueling ongoing debates about her selection.

Fans’ response to Chelsea Gray’s addition

Many fans and analysts argue that other players could have been better choices. “Chelsea Gray hasn’t played a single minute yet,” wrote one disheartened fan. Chelsea Gray is undoubtedly a standout player in the WNBA. She made her Olympic debut at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she averaged 7.5 points and 3.2 assists per game. However, due to her leg injury, she hasn’t played since last year.

Another fan expressed concern: “I’ll be honest, Griner shouldn’t be on here, but they need the height. Also, is Chelsea Gray going to be cleared by then? Everyone else on the roster deserves to be there more than CC.” Notably, Brittney Griner, at 6’9″, is taller than everyone else, contributing to her average of 4.0 rebounds per game. Gray’s uncertain status has left fans frustrated.

“Isn’t Chelsea Gray, like, INJURED??? That mf hasn’t played all season,” added another spectator. Even though Gray’s prior Olympic experience is a plus, it can’t overshadow Clark’s potential. Another fan added, “Who has the jersey contract? Nike? Selling a few million Clark USA jerseys is a compelling argument. I mean, what does Chelsea Gray give you that Clark won’t?”