Basketball fans hoping for a legendary repeat performance from LeBron James and Steph Curry at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles have had their hopes dashed. The NBA superstars have publicly poured cold water on the idea, stating it is highly improbable they will represent Team USA on home soil.
End of an Era for Team USA
During a recent episode of the Mind the Game podcast, which James hosts with Steve Nash, the Los Angeles Lakers star was unequivocal about his future plans. When questioned about the 2028 Games, James declared, "You already know my answer. I will be watching it from Cabo." This firm statement rules out any speculation of a sixth Olympic appearance for the four-time NBA champion.
Golden State Warriors icon Steph Curry was slightly less absolute but equally realistic about his chances. He expressed that, while he would never completely close the door, a return is "highly unlikely." Curry elaborated, "God willing I still have the choice and the physical option to feel like I can actually impact the team... I'd love to be a part of the movement."
Reflecting on a Parisian Triumph
The decision follows a storybook ending for both players at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where they were instrumental in securing the United States' fifth consecutive gold medal in men's basketball. The duo capped off their international careers with a spectacular victory against host nation France at the Accor Arena.
Curry, in particular, delivered a masterclass in the final, drawing widespread acclaim for his 24-point performance during the 98-87 win. Though not matching Curry's scoring tally in that game, LeBron James was later honoured as the MVP of the entire men's basketball competition. He finished the final with a stat line of 14 points, six rebounds, and nine assists.
James justified their decision to step away by stating that the Paris experience was a peak moment that could not be replicated. "We can't top what we just did," he said on the podcast. "We can't top those last two games, and just, the moment. We literally played France in Paris."
Focus Returns to the NBA Court
The news comes as LeBron James prepares for a landmark return to the NBA. After being sidelined for the Lakers' opening 14 games of the season due to sciatica, James is set to make his debut in the 2025 season against the Utah Jazz. This return will see him set the NBA record for the most seasons played.
In his absence, the Lakers, who hold a strong 10-4 record, have been led by Luka Doncic and the emerging talent of Austin Reaves. Reaves has developed into one of the team's most reliable players, ranking ninth in the NBA for points-per-game with 28.3. The reintegration of James is expected to solidify the Lakers' position as serious contenders in the Western Conference.
While the international chapter appears closed for these two legends, their focus now shifts to continuing their historic careers in the NBA, leaving Team USA to build a new generation of champions for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
