3 reasons why Cameron Brink's absence impacted USA Women's 3x3 team at Paris Olympics

Cameron Brink was one of the WNBA's most promising rookies this season. However, she only played in 15 games with the LA Sparks when she sustained an ACL injury on June 18 against the Connecticut Sun. It was unfortunate as she was also selected to be part of the USA Basketball Women's 3x3 team at the Paris Olympics.

In her 15 games, the Sparks forward averaged 7.5 points (39.8% shooting, including 32.3% from beyond the arc), 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 blocks. The upside in her game remains high as she showcased her potential to be one of the best two-way athletes in the WNBA.

Given Cameron Brink's absence in this year's Team USA Women's 3x3 unit, the squad has only won one game out of their four outings in the competition. Her absence has been felt as the team has relied on its guard play to lead the way.

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Top three reasons why Cameron Brink's absence impacted USA Basketball Women's 3x3 team at Paris Olympics

#3, Rebounding size

Cameron Brink is listed at 6-foot-4 with an incredible wingspan to box out effectively and secure rebounds against tight coverages under the rim. She is no stranger to putting up big numbers on the glass, which could have helped in extending offensive possessions for Team USA.

This has been evident with how the team has been outrebounded with offensive boards compared to how their opponents perform on that end.

#2, Floor spacing

Aside from her reliable rebounding ability, Brink is also known for being capable of hitting perimeter shots. Her height makes her a matchup nightmare to defend, especially as she forces an opponent's big to step out of the paint and guard her in space.

Cameron Brink's presence would have improved the team's spacing and provided more room for their guards, such as Hailey Van Lith, to score easily.

#1, Rim protection

LA Sparks forward Cameron Brink

One of the biggest assets to having Brink on this year's Women's 3x3 Olympic team was going to be her stable rim protection. The Sparks forward is regarded as one of the WNBA's best young rim protectors. Her average of 2.3 blocks per game should not be easily scoffed at she played against some of the best basketball players in the world.

Getting the necessary stops is crucial in the international basketball competition as the simple sight of Brink could force offensive players to double-think on their next move at the basket.

Her absence has led to necessary adjustments for USA Basketball. The team has done the best it can with what it has, but Brink is sorely missed.