The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics is right around the corner, and Team USA’s 3×3 women’s basketball team has potentially suffered another significant loss.

Earlier in the month, the 3×3 roster took a significant hit as Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink suffered a torn ACL, leaving her unable to play for the year.

This injury left a gap in Team USA’s roster as she was the tallest player on the team. The roster was down to just three guards: Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream, Hailey Van Lith of the TCU Horned Frogs, and Cierra Burdick, who has played with the 3×3 squad in the past.

A day later, Team USA suffered another injury as Howard went down with an ankle injury. It was revealed that Howard will be out indefinitely, and a timeline for return is currently unknown, leaving her Olympics status in question.

Rhyne Howard, Atlanta Dream Grace Hollars / IndyStar / USA TODAY Network

Rhyne Howard, Atlanta Dream Grace Hollars / IndyStar / USA TODAY Network© Provided by Athlon Sports

Howard was recently seen in a walking boot and using a scooter to move around, which isn’t a good sign for her Olympic future.

This injury may leave a guard spot open for the 3×3 roster. The perfect replacement for Howard is the most extensive Team USA 5×5 snub, former Iowa Hawkeyes and current Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.

Howard and Clark have similar playstyles. They take and make a lot of three-pointers and are very capable playmakers. They can also be pesky on the defensive side of the ball, with both averaging over one steal a game. Clark could fill in for Howard nicely and bring much attention to the USA’s 3×3 team.

The Olympics is a little over a month away. Team USA’s first women’s 3×3 game is on July 30 against Germany. If Howard is not medically cleared to play, the USA must find a replacement quickly.