Fans Criticize Cheryl Reeve’s Decisions as Diana Taurasi and Kelsey Plum Struggle Amid Team USA’s Olympic Success
As Team USA marches toward yet another historic Olympic gold in women’s basketball, not all fans are satisfied with the team’s performance. Despite the team’s dominant 85-64 victory over Australia in the semifinals, critics on social media are questioning the decision-making of head coach Cheryl Reeve, particularly regarding the playing time and roles of veteran Diana Taurasi and newcomer Kelsey Plum.
Team USA’s victory over Australia highlighted the usual brilliance of stars like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson, who have been pivotal throughout the tournament. However, as the U.S. team continues to crush their opponents, the contributions—or lack thereof—from certain players have become a focal point for fan frustration.
Diana Taurasi, a living legend preparing to retire after these Olympics, and Kelsey Plum, making her first Olympic appearance in the 5×5 format, have both drawn heavy criticism for their recent performances. Despite the team’s overall success, fans have taken to social media to express their discontent with Reeve’s decisions regarding these two players, who are at opposite ends of their Olympic careers.
Taurasi, a five-time Olympian and one of the most decorated players in basketball history, has struggled to make an impact in Paris. After being moved to a bench role, she has scored only three points in her last two games, playing just six minutes in the semifinal against Australia.
This comes after a scoreless outing against Germany during the group stage, leading fans to question why she continues to receive playing time. “Respectfully, Cheryl Reeve should just leave Diana Taurasi on the bench so she doesn’t continue to go out and perform like this in front of the world,” one fan commented, reflecting the growing sentiment that Taurasi’s legendary career might be ending on a sour note.
Kelsey Plum, on the other hand, has faced criticism for her inefficiency on the court. Despite her reputation as a sharpshooter in the WNBA, Plum has struggled to find her rhythm in the Olympics. In the knockout stages, she has managed just eight points, with only two coming in the semifinal against Australia.
Her 3-point shooting, a strength in her professional career, has been subpar, with a shooting percentage of just 36.4%. One frustrated fan wrote, “Kelsey Plum has the worst shot selection ever,” while another added, “idk what Reeve sees in Kelsey Plum; we have been outscored every single minute she has played.”
Plum’s difficulties were evident in the semifinal, where she was introduced late in the first quarter. Her time on the court was marred by two turnovers, a missed three-pointer, and a missed layup, contributing to Australia’s ability to close the gap during her minutes. By the end of the game, Plum had a +/- of -5, the second-worst on the team behind Taurasi, sparking further criticism. “A Taurasi & Kelsey Plum backcourt is very unserious,” one fan bluntly stated.
The critiques extend beyond individual performances to Reeve’s overall strategy. Fans are questioning why Plum and Taurasi continue to receive significant minutes despite their struggles, particularly when the team has other options on the bench. While players like Kahleah Copper and Sabrina Ionescu have provided solid contributions off the bench, the reliance on Plum and Taurasi in critical moments has left many scratching their heads.
Despite the backlash, Team USA remains the favorite to clinch the gold medal. However, the dissatisfaction among fans highlights the high expectations placed on every player in the lineup. As the team prepares for the final, all eyes will be on Taurasi and Plum to see if they can rise to the occasion and silence their critics.
For Diana Taurasi, the final could be the last chapter of an illustrious international career, and fans are hoping she can deliver a vintage performance. Meanwhile, Kelsey Plum will be eager to prove her doubters wrong and contribute meaningfully to what could be a historic night for Team USA. The pressure is on, and the outcome of the final will determine whether these players can turn their Olympic fortunes around.
