LeBron James Rules Out 2028 Olympics, Stephen Curry Also Doubtful for LA Games

Basketball legends LeBron James and Stephen Curry have hinted that their Olympic journeys may be over, confirming they are unlikely to suit up for Team USA when the 2028 Summer Olympics arrive in Los Angeles.

Speaking on the “Mind the Game” podcast, LeBron James made it clear that he intends to watch the Games rather than play in them. “You already know my answer,” said the 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers star. “I will be watching it.” For the four-time NBA champion and four-time Olympic medalist, the decision reflects both contentment with his past achievements and recognition of his career stage.

James has been one of the cornerstones of Team USA’s success over the past two decades. He won a bronze medal in 2004, then gold medals in 2008 (Beijing), 2012 (London), and 2024 (Paris). His leadership and experience have been vital in restoring and sustaining American dominance on the Olympic stage. Now, as he recovers from a sciatica issue before making his season debut with the Lakers, James appears ready to pass the torch to a new generation of stars.

Joining the discussion, Golden State Warriors icon Stephen Curry expressed similar sentiments about the 2028 Olympics, though he stopped short of a definitive retirement from international play. “God willing, I still have the choice and physical option where I could impact the team,” Curry said. “Never say never, but I highly doubt it. Highly doubt it.”

Curry, who will also be 40 when the Los Angeles Games take place, made his long-awaited Olympic debut in 2024 at the Paris Games. Despite years of injuries and deep playoff runs that kept him from previous appearances, he played a crucial role in helping the United States win its fifth consecutive gold medal. Averaging 14.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in just over 23 minutes per game, Curry led the team in scoring and delivered several clutch performances.

If both stars indeed forgo the 2028 Olympics, it will mark the end of an era for American basketball. Between them, James and Curry have defined excellence, leadership, and longevity across multiple generations of the sport. And while they may be courtside spectators in Inglewood come 2028, their legacy with Team USA will remain firmly etched in Olympic history.