In a poignant twist blending personal tragedy and national team aspirations, USA Women’s Basketball announced today that Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull will replace superstar Caitlin Clark on the senior national team training camp roster. The decision comes just days after Clark shared the devastating news of her golden retriever Bella’s sudden passing, a loss that has left the WNBA sensation reeling amid an already injury-plagued season.
Clark, 23, who earned her first invitation to the elite December 12-14 camp at Duke University, revealed the heartbreaking update on Instagram late last month. “My girl Bella crossed the rainbow bridge this week after 8 incredible years. She was my shadow, my cheerleader through every buzzer-beater and heartbreak. Home feels empty without her paws padding behind me,” Clark captioned a montage of sunlit hikes, courtside cuddles, and Bella’s signature head-tilt grin. Fans flooded the post with condolences, one writing, “Dogs aren’t pets—they’re soulmates. Sending you strength, CC.”
The timing couldn’t be more cruel. Clark’s 2025 campaign ended prematurely due to nagging quad strains, a groin tweak, and an ankle bone bruise, sidelining her for the Fever’s playoff push. Bella, featured on custom gold sneakers Clark debuted earlier this year—complete with pink tongues and insole paw prints—had been her constant since puppyhood. “She got me through the rookie’s fire,” Clark told reporters postgame in November, her voice cracking. Now, entering what was meant to be a milestone camp, the Iowa icon opts for privacy and healing, citing the “unimaginable void” in a statement to USA Basketball.
Enter Lexie Hull, Clark’s Fever teammate and fellow sharpshooter, stepping up as the emotional anchor. The 25-year-old Stanford alum, no stranger to loss herself—having mourned her own childhood beagle Maggie in July—brings grit and versatility to the mix. Averaging career highs of 8.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 49% from deep this season, Hull’s inclusion is a nod to her rising stock. “Caitlin’s family; we’re all hurting for her,” Hull shared via X. “Honored to rep Team USA, but this one’s for Bella too—doggie heaven’s got the best duo now.”
The camp, a gateway to the 2026 FIBA World Cup, features stars like A’ja Wilson and Sabrina Ionescu. USA Basketball’s statement praised Clark’s “courageous vulnerability” while lauding Hull’s “seamless fit.” Teammates rallied: Aaliyah Boston posted, “Prayers up, Cait. Lex, ball out for us.” Sophie Cunningham added, “From one dog mom to another— we’ve got you.”
As the hoops world grieves, Clark’s absence underscores a universal truth: even MVPs need timeouts for the heart. Bella’s legacy? A reminder that behind every crossover, there’s a loyal companion. Rest easy, girl—your human’s still got that killer logo shot.
