NEW YORK — Sue Bird is ready to welcome the next generation of American basketball stars to Team USA. Bird, who was announced Thursday as the managing director for the U.S. women’s national team, signaled her openness to bring Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers and other American young talent into the fold as she takes on her role.

Five-time Olympic gold medalist Sue Bird was named the first-ever managing director of the USA Basketball Women's National Team on Thursday.