Los Angeles Lakers phenom LeBron James played an integral role in Team USA’s successful gold medal run in the 2024 Olympics.
The future Hall of Fame did a little bit of everything in Paris last summer, averaging 14.2 points, 10.2 assists, and 8.2 rebounds with Team USA, helping them capture their 17th overall gold medal.
While the 2028 Olympics are a ways away, James has already made a final decision on his status for the highly anticipated summer event.
“In the second installment of a podcast conversation featuring Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James and Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, the future Hall of Famers made it clear that neither plans to compete for the men's national team at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles,” ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported Tuesday.
"You already know my answer," James said. "I will be watching it."
By the time the 2028 Olympics arrive, James will be 43 years old, making it logical for him to step away and allow the younger stars/up-and-comers to represent Team USA.
Considering James has won five gold medals, two bronze medals, ranks in the top-5 in every major statistical category, and became the first men’s basketball player to assume flag bearer responsibilities for Team USA, he should be at peace with his decision.
Still, there’s no question that the Olympics won’t be the same without James a part of the action.
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