As the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics approach, the USA Women’s Basketball team has made headlines not just for their performance on the court but also for their representation off it. Over half of the 12-player roster is publicly out as LGBT, making this team one of the most openly diverse squads in the history of the Olympic Games.

The team’s journey to the gold medal game has been marked by dominance, a reflection of the experience and skill that defines this roster. With veteran leadership playing a crucial role, it’s no surprise that the team, coached by Cheryl Reeve and assisted by Kurt Miller—both of whom are also openly LGBT—has not lost a game.

Despite the impressive lineup, the absence of NBA rookie Caitlin Clark from the team sparked debate. Some were surprised by her exclusion, while others saw it as an inevitable result of her rookie status and lack of experience. Clark, who has had a solid start to her career with the Indiana Fever, was 13th in the WNBA scoring list and fourth in assists at the time selections were made. However, her shooting percentage of 37% was likely a factor in her being left off a team filled with WNBA legends.

The decision to exclude Clark led to criticism from certain commentators, who accused the team of being influenced by the black LGBT community. These claims, however, ignore the simple fact that veteran experience and proven performance are invaluable in international competitions. The inclusion of players like Breanna Stewart and Diana Taurasi—both of whom are among the greatest in the history of women’s basketball—demonstrates that the selection process prioritizes experience and excellence.

The seven LGBT players on the team include Breanna Stewart, Diana Taurasi, Alyssa Thomas, Brittney Griner, Jewell Loyd, Chelsea Gray, and Kahleah Copper. These athletes have not only excelled in their professional careers but have also played pivotal roles in maintaining Team USA’s undefeated streak. Their presence in the gold medal game is a testament to their talent, resilience, and the growing visibility of LGBT athletes on the world stage.

The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, running from July 26 to August 11, are set to be a landmark event for LGBT representation in sports, and the USA Women’s Basketball team is leading the charge. As they compete for gold, their success will be celebrated not just as a triumph of athletic skill but also as a victory for diversity and inclusion.