In a recent interview, WNBA legend Diana Taurasi addressed the ongoing debate surrounding Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark’s preparation for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin. While Taurasi praised Clark’s explosive impact on the game, she cautioned that the young guard is “not yet ready” for the intense international stage, emphasizing the need for more seasoning against elite global competition.
Taurasi, who retired earlier this year after a Hall of Fame career, pointed to Clark’s stellar yet abbreviated 2025 WNBA season—cut short by a groin injury—as evidence that experience matters. “Caitlin is phenomenal and has elevated women’s basketball like few others,” Taurasi said. “But FIBA is a different beast: physical, strategic, and unforgiving. She’s on the right path, but rushing her could set her back.”
Clark, 23, was recently invited to the USA Basketball senior national team training camp in December 2025, her first at this level. Alongside rising stars like Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese, she’s vying for a spot on the roster aiming for a fifth straight World Cup title. USA officials, including managing director Sue Bird, have expressed confidence in Clark’s potential, but selection remains competitive.
Taurasi also criticized the media’s relentless hype, arguing it’s “doing more harm than good.” The constant spotlight, she said, creates unrealistic expectations and undue pressure on young players transitioning to higher levels. “The narrative paints her as unbeatable, but reality in international play hits different. We’ve seen rookies struggle before thriving—give her grace.”
This echoes Taurasi’s past comments on rookies facing “reality” in the pros, which sparked controversy but ultimately proved prescient for many. As qualifiers approach in March 2026, Clark’s camp performance will be pivotal. Fans eagerly await whether the generational talent will debut for Team USA, potentially ushering in a new era.
