and all the attention is “why isn’t she starting”?

Or, if she does play, and they lose a game.

Her popularity TANKS. She becomes the scapegoat and poster child of the downfall of US Women’s basketball.

Having her on the team is a liability. A distraction.

If she’s still a baller in 4 years (which she will be) and is left off the team then there is a reasonable gripe to be had. But now? No.