Stephen Curry expresses uncertainty about participating in the 2028 Olympics for Team USA, following a conversation with LeBron and Steve Nash.

Jackson Vaerewyck

Stephen Curry casts doubt on playing for Team USA in 2028 Olympics after discussion with LeBron, Steve Nash image

© Rob Schumacher-Imagn Images

Aug 10, 2024; Paris, France; United States shooting guard Stephen Curry (4) celebrates after defeating France in the men's basketball gold medal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher-Imagn Images

TL;DR

  • Stephen Curry won a gold medal in his 2024 Olympic debut.
  • Curry expressed doubt about playing for Team USA in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
  • He indicated his Olympic playing career might have concluded in Paris.
  • Curry suggested he might still want to be part of the movement in another capacity.

Stephen Curry's much-anticipated first Olympic appearance in 2024 concluded with a gold medal, a perfect ending that many believed would only encourage discussions about another Olympic cycle in 2028. However, Curry indicated this week that Los Angeles might not be part of his future.

On the latest episode of LeBron James and Steve Nash’s podcast, “Mind the Game,” Curry was asked whether he’d consider playing for Team USA again in four years. His tone was honest, reflective and very different from what he told James a year earlier.

“It is the opposite answer of what I told [LeBron] last year,” Curry said. “God willing, I still have the choice and the physical option to be like, I can actually impact the team. Never say never, but I highly doubt it. Love to be a part of the movement.”

Stephen Curry will reach the age of 40 by the time the 2028 Olympic Games commence, and his remarks indicate he's considering not just his career span but also his ability to meet the high expectations of Team USA. While not an outright retirement announcement, his statements provided the strongest hint to date that his Olympic participation might have concluded in Paris.

James responded with a laugh that doubled as a reality check for the entire 2024 group.

“We can’t top what we did last year,” he said, acknowledging the once-in-a-generation roster that powered USA Basketball back to the top in Paris.


Following Nash's own commendation of the Paris squad's synergy and expertise, the online discussion resumed, underscoring the unique nature of that successful period for the veteran American talent.

Should Curry step down in 2028, the U.S. National team will fully embrace its emerging talent, featuring stars like Anthony Edwards, Paolo Banchero, Tyrese Haliburton, and others. Curry did not dismiss the possibility of remaining involved, suggesting he might still “love to be a part of the movement,” in some capacity, even if not as a player.

The door remains open for now. However, Curry's recent remarks indicate a potential shift: if he participates in the Los Angeles Olympics, it might be in an altered capacity.

 

More NBA news:

Contributing Writer