At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, LeBron James added to his legacy by securing his fourth gold medal. Now, with the spotlight shifting to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games, the big question looms: will he chase a fifth?
By 2028, LeBron will be 43 years old, and while many anticipate he’ll hang up his sneakers by then, we’ve seen the King defy age well beyond expectations. Could he potentially don the red, white, and blue one more time?
In a candid conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, LeBron appeared to quash the idea of participating in the upcoming Olympics. He made it clear that while his commitment to Team USA and USA Basketball remains unwavering, taking the court at this stage of his career seems unlikely.
“Nothing has changed. Where we at, man, 2025 right now?” LeBron quipped, adding with characteristic honesty, “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. I’ve given everything that I have, and I will always be appreciative and loyal and dedicated to Team USA and USA Basketball.”
For LeBron to step onto the Olympic stage in 2028, he would set the record as the oldest basketball player in Olympic history. The current record holder is Lauren Jackson of Australia, who played at 43 years and 79 days old, while the oldest male player to date is Brazil’s Marcelino Huertas, who competed at 41 years and 63 days.
Despite LeBron’s undeniable skill and his ability to play at a high level, including his standout performances during the recent NBA season, he recognizes the challenges of remaining an Olympic contender as time marches on.
So, as it stands, we may have seen the last of LeBron James at the Olympics. However, fans shouldn’t fret—Team USA’s chances of capturing gold in 2028 remain bright, regardless of whether the King’s crown makes one final appearance.
