LeBron James, a four-time Olympian with three gold medals and one bronze, indicated that the 2024 Paris Olympics will likely mark the end of his Olympic participation. The Los Angeles Lakers star, who will be 43 by the time the 2028 Games are held in his hometown, hinted he does not foresee competing for Team USA again in Los Angeles. His extensive international experience and age suggest that 2028 could be beyond his playing horizon.
James’ Perspective on Future Team USA Involvement
While James has previously suggested that Paris 2024 would be his final Olympic appearance, he had not officially ruled out a return for the 2028 Games. His basketball peers, including Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, have expressed similar considerations following their recent Olympic success alongside James. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, James stated:
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.
This response reflects James’ commitment to remain involved with Team USA off the court, even as his playing days at the Olympics likely come to a close.
James’ Impact and Achievements in the 2024 Olympics
The 2024 Olympics served as a prominent stage for James, where he frequently carried Team USA with clutch performances during a challenging tournament. He earned the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award after posting averages of 14.2 points, 8.5 assists, and 6.8 rebounds. In the gold medal match against France, James delivered a double-double, helping secure a lead Team USA maintained to claim gold.
I’ve given everything that I have,
James said,
and I will always be appreciative and loyal and dedicated to Team USA and USA Basketball.
His leadership extended beyond play, combining strong individual effort with dedication to his country’s basketball program.
Historic Milestones and Legacy in Olympic Basketball
If 2024 indeed marks his last Olympic appearance, James finishes on a triumphant note: winning gold and MVP honors while also serving as one of the U.S. Olympic Committee’s flag bearers during the opening ceremony. This honor places him alongside basketball legends Sue Bird and Dawn Staley, making them the only players in USA Basketball history to carry the flag.
James is also among a select group of American men’s basketball players—along with Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant—who have competed in four Olympics. He debuted in 2004 in Athens, contributed to the 2008 “Redeem Team” in Beijing, captured gold in London 2012, and returned to the Olympic roster in Paris after missing the prior two Games.
His three Olympic gold medals tie him with Carmelo Anthony for the second-most in men’s basketball history, trailing only Kevin Durant, who now holds four after last summer’s victory.
The Future of LeBron James and Team USA Basketball
LeBron James’ likely retirement from Olympic competition after 2024 marks the end of a remarkable international career. Given his age and extensive commitment to the sport, it is expected that he will focus on supporting Team USA in non-playing roles going forward. The 2028 Los Angeles Games will offer a new generation the chance to shine on home soil as James continues to contribute off the court. His legacy remains firmly established as one of basketball’s greatest Olympians.