FIBA snubs Caitlin Clark with World Cup decision

Caitlin Clark played a key role in Team USA’s success at the FIBA World Cup. The Indiana Fever guard was a big part of head coach Kara Lawson’s rotation despite coming off the bench in all six games. However, the international basketball federation snubbed her with their recent decision.

Clark started the tournament with a historic performance versus China in the group phase. She finished with 14 points and 11 assists, setting the record for most dimes by a USA player at the event in 28 years. The three-time WNBA All-Star also had two disappointing performances, but played well in her other appearances.

During the gold medal game against France, Clark contributed 12 points on 4-of-5 shooting and three assists. Her solid numbers backed Breanna Stewart’s 22 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. Jackie Young, Kahleah Copper and Chelsea Gray added 18, 15 and 12 points, respectively, in the 97-79 win.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) reacts from the bench after a play made by the Las Vegas Aces.

Caitlin Clark not part of FIBA World Cup All-Star Five

FIBA announced the World Cup All-Star Five that includes two Team USA players. However, Clark is not one them. Stewart and Young are joined by France’s Gabby Williams, Germany’s Leonie Fiebich and Spain’s Iyana Martin.

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Clark averaged 7.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists in 19.3 minutes. Her two subpar outings likely caused her snub, as she registered just one point on 0-of-6 shooting versus Italy. The 24-year-old also struggled in the semifinals against Spain, scoring only one point again, failing to convert any of her three field goal attempts.

She will turn her attention back to the WNBA regular season as Indiana returns to action on Friday. The team will face the Toronto Tempo at Coca-Cola Coliseum for the first of its four remaining assignments. Clark and the Fever have a 26-14 record and currently fifth in the standings. The final seedings will be determined in the final week of the campaign.