Indiana Fever standout Caitlin Clark recently stirred excitement and curiosity among sports fans by suggesting she might explore a surprising alternative to basketball at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Known for her love of the Kansas City Chiefs and her dynamic presence on the court, Clark hinted that if she’s not selected for Team USA’s basketball squad, she could consider trying out for the U.S. flag football team instead.
Her remarks came during a visit to the NFL Annual League Meeting in Palm Beach, Florida, where she shared a lighthearted but intriguing comment about her Olympic ambitions. “Maybe I’ll do both sports in LA 2028,” she said with a smile. “And if basketball doesn’t work out, maybe I’ll give flag football a shot.” While it’s likely she was speaking in jest, her history as a multi-sport athlete makes the idea a bit more than just playful banter.
Throughout her youth, Clark was far more than a basketball prodigy. She played a range of sports—volleyball, soccer, softball, golf, and tennis—each of which helped shape her into the versatile athlete she is today. Even now, she occasionally returns to the golf course during her off time from the WNBA season. Her natural athleticism, coupled with her competitive edge, makes the concept of her switching lanes to flag football quite intriguing, even if improbable.
USA Football has responded positively to the buzz surrounding Clark’s comments. Scott Hallenbeck, the organization’s Executive Director, emphasized that the door is open to any athlete who wants to compete—so long as they go through the formal selection process. “We’re building the strongest team possible for LA 2028,” Hallenbeck explained. “And crossover athletes have already shown they can compete at elite levels in flag football. Caitlin would have to earn her spot, just like everyone else.”
Though it remains to be seen whether Clark will pursue this unconventional path or stick with her first love—basketball—her remarks have ignited fresh conversation around athlete versatility and representation in the Olympics. After being passed over for the Paris 2024 roster, Clark’s playful yet pointed comments may also reflect her drive to make an Olympic appearance by any means necessary, basketball or not.
