Diana Taurasi unequivocally endorses Caitlin Clark, deeming her the perfect successor for the iconic Team USA No. 12 jersey and future national team leadership.
When Caitlin Clark took the floor for Team USA at the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Puerto Rico, the change in jersey number stood out immediately.
Known for wearing No. 22 throughout her college and WNBA career, Clark instead suited up in No. 12 — a number closely associated with Diana Taurasi.
Taurasi, who wore No. 12 for two decades while winning six Olympic gold medals, had no hesitation in endorsing the decision.
"I mean, it's so cool to see Caitlin not only wear the USA jersey, number 12. I mean, I spent two decades wearing that jersey and that number, and I couldn't think of anyone better to take it and put it on and just have an amazing career. And Caitlin will do that. She had great qualifiers down in Puerto Rico. It's just going to be fun to watch her play in the summer in Germany and then the Olympics. No one better to wear the 12, and Caitlin's going to put some gold medals on that jersey, you know,” Taurasi said during an interview with Sports Illustrated's Grant Young.
Clark’s first senior stint with Team USA supported that view. She averaged 11.6 points and 6.4 assists while helping the United States finish 5-0 in Puerto Rico, operating comfortably as a primary ball-handler against experienced international defenses.
However, her ability to balance scoring with playmaking allowed the team to maintain its usual pace and structure despite integrating newer pieces into the rotation.
The number change itself was largely circumstantial. FIBA regulations limit jersey selections, and with No. 22 unavailable, Clark opted for No. 12 — a choice that inevitably carried historical significance. Taurasi noted she had no role in the decision, suggesting it may have come from within USA Basketball’s leadership group.
Beyond the symbolism, the focus remains on Clark’s progression.
Her 2025 season with the Indiana Fever was interrupted by injuries, restricting her to 13 games despite maintaining All-Star level production. The extended time away from the court raised questions about rhythm and continuity, but her return in Puerto Rico provided a clearer picture of her current form.
Clark looked composed, efficient, and fully integrated within the system. She didn’t force offense, instead letting the game develop while still creating advantages with her range and passing vision. That approach aligns with what Team USA has traditionally valued from its lead guards.
Taurasi’s comments reflect more than a passing endorsement. They point to a level of confidence in Clark’s ability to handle both the expectations and the responsibilities that come with representing the national team.
There is still a transition underway, both within the roster and in the broader identity of the program. Veterans have begun to step aside, and newer players are taking on larger roles. Clark’s early performances suggest she will be part of that next phase.
Whether she continues wearing No. 12 or not, the number itself is secondary. What matters is how she builds on this introduction to the senior level, particularly with major tournaments ahead.
For now, she has made a steady start — and, in Taurasi’s view, justified the faith placed in her.