The WNBA season has kicked off with a chaotic beginning, as injuries are already a prominent concern. The 3×3 USA Olympic team has also been affected by two injuries, just like many other teams. Shortly after Cameron Brink revealed her left ACL tear, ending her rookie season, her teammate Rhyne Howard injured her ankle, casting doubt on her participation in the Paris 3×3 event.
The shocking news from Brink had a profound impact on the basketball community, with a number of peers and coaches providing words of encouragement and support. Tara VanDerveer, Brink’s ex-coach at Stanford, commended her determination and competitive nature, saying she will strive to return to the court with hard work.
The injury to Howard has brought up worries about whether she will be able to participate in the 3×3 event. The Atlanta Dream player injured her ankle in a game against the Minnesota Lynx, and while the severity of the injury is uncertain, it is expected to result in her being out of action for a period of time. The committee needs to evaluate Howard’s state and determine if it’s necessary to substitute her with a different player.
Cameron Brink’s injury means she’ll miss not just the rest of her WNBA rookie season but Paris 2024. The Sparks star’s Olympic pursuit is over (until LA, at least).
Who will replace her on the US’s 3×3 squad? Here’s a look at the top contenders.https://t.co/p5bW4wuXa4
— emily dozier (@emilydozi) June 19, 2024
The fast-paced and physically demanding nature of the 3×3 event might pose a challenge for Howard to recover in time. If she cannot join in, it will be the second instance this season where a player has needed to be substituted on the roster. Katie Lou Samuelson from the Indiana Fever had no choice but to pull out of the event earlier this year because of an injury.
The WNBA season has seen many injuries and obstacles so far, and it appears that this pattern will persist. Players have been pushed to their limits, facing grueling schedules and intense competition. The injuries suffered by Brink and Howard underscore the physical demands and intensity of professional basketball, highlighting the importance of players being ready to handle challenges and bounce back.
These setbacks are a testament to the rigorous nature of the sport, where physical endurance and mental resilience are crucial. Teams must adapt quickly, relying on their depth and training staff to keep athletes in peak condition and minimize the impact of injuries on their performance.