LeBron James. Image via: Getty Images LeBron James has long been a fixture in Olympic basketball lore, but as the 2028 Summer Games inch closer, the Los Angeles Lakers legend has clarified that his playing days with Team USA are almost certainly behind him. Despite the global event coming to his adopted hometown of Los Angeles, James— who will be 43 years old by then— does not anticipate suiting up one last time on the Olympic stage. Though speculation has lingered due to his unmatched longevity, James recently put that to rest with a firm update on where he stands.
LeBron James is unlikely to suit up for Team USA at the 2028 Olympics
LeBron James. Image via: Getty Images.
In an exclusive conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, LeBron James addressed the persistent question regarding a potential 2028 comeback for Team USA. His answer was both gracious and definitive.“Nothing has changed,” James said. “Where we at, man, 2025 right now? Nah, nothing has changed. I mean, if I had to look at it right now through a microscope, I would say that, me being able to support Team USA for the rest of my life — that’s for sure. But me actually going on and playing, I don’t see it happening.”While he has not issued a formal retirement from international play, James’ words strongly suggest Paris 2024 was his final Olympic run. It was a fitting swan song. He helped guide Team USA to gold while earning tournament MVP and logging a standout stat line of 14.2 points, 8.5 assists, and 6.8 rebounds per game. His double-double in the gold medal match against France capped off a campaign that proved age is just a number—until, well, it’s always isn’t.James’ Olympic resume speaks volumes, four appearances, three golds, one bronze, and historic company alongside Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant as the only American men to play in four Olympic Games. At the opening ceremony in Paris, he also became one of the few basketball players, joining Sue Bird and Dawn Staley, to serve as an Olympic flag bearer.Still, LeBron’s contributions go beyond medals and accolades. Reflecting on the 2008 “Redeem Team,” James recalled the meaning behind their mission. “We understood that going into the (2008) Beijing Olympics, that it had nothing to do with the names on our backs — it had everything to do about the red, white and blue in the ‘USA’ on our front,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “And we understood that we were carrying the whole country.”Also Read: “Obviously, post-career” – LeBron James shares his prospect for acting in Hollywood after NBA retirementEven if James never plays another Olympic minute, his legacy in red, white, and blue is etched in history. His focus now appears to be on supporting Team USA to his best capacity. And with rumors swirling about his NBA retirement after his historic 22nd season and recent playoff appearance with his son Bronny, it’s clear the clock is ticking on a legendary career that has already given basketball fans everything.