LeBron James announces final plan on suiting up for home-based 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
LeBron James has made up his mind on availability for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The USA star declared he won't be playing and that the 2024 Paris Olympics are his 'last dance' with the Americans. The Lakers star will be 43 in 2028 and potentially retired from the NBA, too.
"I won't be there," LeBron said in an interview with 'Today's' Drew Wisholtz.
James is inevitably heading towards the end of his illustrious basketball career. He will be in his 22nd NBA season in October and turns 40 in December. He signed a two-year deal with a player option in the second season this offseason, so he's taking his NBA career year by year.
There are only so many miles he has left in the tank, so the possibility of him calling time on his career seems realistic. He also got his wish of being on the same team as his son, Bronny James, with LA drafting the 19-year-old with the No. 55 pick.
Kevin Durant thinks LeBron James might suit up for 2028 LA Olympics
While LeBron James declared he's calling time on his Team USA career, co-star Kevin Durant said on Wednesday that the Lakers star might stay around for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
"I feel like 'Bron could play four or five more (years)," Durant said after Team USA's exhibition game against Canada.
"He might be here in 2028 in Los Angeles. Steph still playing great ball. I'm doing alright too. I don't want to look at it that way, I still think we've got some good ball left in the tank.”
James has played at a high level, maintaining his career average of producing at least 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists a game.
However, father time has caught up with the 39-year-old in the form of injuries. James, who has relatively stayed healthy for most of his prime, hasn't been as durable since moving to LA in 2018. He played 70+ games for the first time in his Lakers career this past season, but James spent the second half of the season dealing with a lingering ankle issue.
It's unclear whether LeBron James will continue to play a limited role to extend his career. Hanging up his sneakers while he's playing at a high level could be his preferred choice.