Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi increase pressure on the US women’s national basketball team coaching staff with new statements. The duo said they will leave the team immediately if Caitlin Clark is called up to play for the US

Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi increase pressure on the US women’s national basketball team coaching staff with new statements. The duo said they will leave the team immediately if Caitlin Clark is called up to play for the US.

The US Women’s National Basketball Team (USWNBT) has found itself at the center of controversy after basketball legends Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi made bold statements regarding rising star Caitlin Clark. The duo, both revered for their contributions to the sport, stated that they would leave the team immediately if Clark were called up to join the national roster.

Griner and Taurasi, two of the most accomplished players in women’s basketball history, have been vocal about their expectations for team dynamics and cohesion. In recent interviews, they expressed concerns about Clark’s potential inclusion in the team, citing reasons that go beyond the young player’s talent.

“Caitlin Clark is an exceptional athlete; no one is denying her skill,” said Griner in a press briefing. “But chemistry matters. The national team isn’t just about individual talent; it’s about how we come together as a unit. Right now, I don’t see her as the right fit.”

Taurasi echoed these sentiments, adding, “The team’s legacy has been built on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared vision. We’ve worked hard to maintain that balance. Bringing in someone like Clark, at this stage, could disrupt that dynamic.”

Clark, a collegiate basketball phenom, has become one of the most talked-about players in the sport. Known for her scoring ability, court vision, and charisma, she has been hailed as a generational talent. Her college performances have drawn comparisons to both past and present greats, and many have speculated that it’s only a matter of time before she receives a call-up to represent the USWNBT.

However, Clark’s ascent has not been without criticism. Some veteran players and analysts have suggested that her style of play, often described as high-energy and individualistic, may not align with the team-oriented approach of the national squad.

The statements from Griner and Taurasi have sparked widespread debate among fans and basketball analysts. Supporters of Clark argue that her inclusion could inject new life into the team and prepare them for future international challenges. Critics, however, side with Griner and Taurasi, emphasizing the importance of veteran leadership and team cohesion.

Sports analyst Rachel Nichols commented, “This is a defining moment for the US women’s basketball program. Do they prioritize the established core, or do they make room for new talent like Clark? It’s a tough call.”

Social media platforms have been abuzz with contrasting opinions, with hashtags like #TeamClark and #TeamVeterans trending simultaneously.

The ultimatum from Griner and Taurasi puts significant pressure on the coaching staff. Head coach Cheryl Reeve has yet to make a public statement on the matter, but sources close to the team indicate that discussions are ongoing. The coaching staff must navigate the delicate balance between honoring the contributions of their veteran players and preparing the team for the future.

“Brittney and Diana are the heart and soul of this team,” said an insider. “Their voices carry a lot of weight, but so does the need to evolve and adapt. This decision could define the next chapter of US women’s basketball.”

Brittney Griner blasts ‘new fans’ who hurled ‘racial slurs’ at her, other WNBA players

‘They don’t deserve that,’ Griner said.

Ten-time All-Star Brittney Griner says the WNBA’s “new fans” crossed the line this year.

The Phoenix Mercury star opened up about the “racial slurs” she and other players heard from “new fans” throughout the 2024 season.

“I don’t appreciate the new fans that sit there and yell racial slurs at myself, my teammates and the people that I play against because, yeah, those might be opponents but those are friends too,” Griner said Thursday night.

“They don’t deserve that. So, I don’t appreciate the new fans who think it’s OK to do that.

Brittney Griner of the Phoenix Mercury against the Seattle Storm during the first quarter at Climate Pledge Arena June 24, 2023, in Seattle. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

“But I do appreciate the new fans that respect the game, that are here to grow our league, bringing people that maybe never watched the W to a WNBA game so that we can grow our fans.”

A number of players have spoken out on hateful comments and vitriol, and the WNBA put out a statement earlier this week to acknowledge the issue.

Brittney Griner of the Phoenix Mercury looks to pass against the Seattle Storm during the first quarter at Climate Pledge Arena June 24, 2023, in Seattle. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

“The WNBA is a competitive league with some of the most elite athletes in the world. While we welcome a growing fan base, the WNBA will not tolerate racist, derogatory or threatening comments made about players, teams and anyone affiliated with the league,” the statement said.

Griner was in her second season back in the league after missing the 2022 campaign while being imprisoned in Russia.

Last year, Griner was involved in an incident with a social media sensation who asked her why she “hates” and “still want[s] to boycott” America.

Brittney Griner (42) of the Phoenix Mercury boxes out Angel Reese (5) of the Chicago Sky during the second half of a WNBA game Aug. 15, 2024, at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.  (Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)