Caitlin Clark, a superstar in the WNBA, recently stirred up excitement when she suggested the possibility of playing flag football in the 2028 Summer Olympics. The Indiana Fever star, known for her incredible basketball skills, hinted that she might suit up for Team USA in flag football, which is set to make its Olympic debut in Los Angeles. However, USA Football CEO Scott Hallenbeck made it clear that Clark, or any athlete for that matter, would need to earn her spot on the team through the proper channels.
Clark’s Olympic Ambitions
During the NFL Annual League Meeting, Clark revealed her childhood dream of playing football, adding that she might pursue it if basketball doesn’t work out.
“Maybe LA 2028, maybe I’ll do two sports,” Clark said. “Or if basketball doesn’t work out, I’ll head over to flag football.”
Her comment sparked conversations about the potential crossover between basketball and flag football in the Olympic arena. Clark, who has already cemented her place as one of the best basketball players in the world, would be stepping into a new challenge — one that may require more than just raw talent.
No Free Pass: Clark Will Need to Try Out for Team USA
While Clark’s dream is certainly exciting, Hallenbeck clarified that USA Football has a strict selection process for Olympic spots.
“USA Football is going to assemble the best possible team for the Los Angeles Olympics,” Hallenbeck told TMZ Sports. “Crossover athletes have already proven they can compete in flag at the highest levels, but there’s a process, and each player will have to earn their spot for LA28.”
Unlike tackle football, which is already well-established, flag football remains a relatively new competitive sport, but it’s no less demanding. Clark would need to prove her ability, despite her basketball background, in a sport that requires unique skills and agility.
The Challenge of Flag Football
Flag football, though non-contact, is far from easy. The game requires excellent speed, quick thinking, and impressive ball-handling skills. Darrell “Housh” Doucette, a top flag football quarterback, has even compared the level of competition to NFL standards, saying he would feel more confident against players like Patrick Mahomes on a 5v5 flag field.
“I’m not saying I’m a better player overall, but until he steps on a 5v5 flag field, I’m going to feel that way until it’s proven otherwise!” Doucette said, highlighting the level of competition.
Flag Football’s Olympic Debut
Flag football will make its Olympic debut in 2028, where both men’s and women’s teams will compete for gold. The inclusion of flag football at the Games will mark a historic moment, but it also opens the door for athletes from various sports, like Clark, to attempt a switch. However, making the transition isn’t as simple as it sounds.
Clark’s Next Steps
If Caitlin Clark is serious about making an Olympic appearance in flag football, she’ll need to dedicate herself to developing the necessary skills. Routes, throws, and understanding the dynamics of flag football are essential, and she may need to commit significant time to training.
As the first time flag football will be included in the Olympics, Clark is undoubtedly a trailblazer if she pursues this dream, but the road ahead will require hard work, determination, and a willingness to prove herself in this new athletic arena.
