Kevin Durant Eyes 2028 Olympics: Still Wants to Compete at 40

The four-time gold medalist plans to earn a spot on the 2028 U.S. Olympic basketball team.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Kevin Durant, currently playing for the Houston Rockets, has announced his intention to compete at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Despite speculation that the Paris Games might have been his last appearance on the international stage, the 34-year-old four-time gold medalist is determined to earn a spot on the U.S. Olympic basketball team, even as he approaches his 40th birthday.

Why it matters

Durant's commitment to competing in the 2028 Olympics at age 40 is noteworthy, as he could potentially surpass LeBron James as the oldest American men's basketball player to ever compete in the Games. His decision also comes as other established stars, like James and Stephen Curry, have indicated their Olympic journeys may be concluding, leaving a potential opening for Durant to continue representing the United States.

The details

Durant emphasized that he doesn't expect a roster spot simply based on his past achievements, and he intends to earn his place through continued performance. Currently averaging 26.1 points per game with the Rockets, Durant hasn't shown significant signs of decline despite his years in the league. A fifth gold medal in 2028 would tie him with Sue Bird for the second-most basketball gold medals in Olympic history, trailing only Diana Taurasi's six.

  • In 2024, LeBron James confirmed he would not participate in the 2028 Games.
  • Stephen Curry has suggested his Olympic participation is unlikely.
  • The 2028 Summer Olympics will be held in Los Angeles.

The players

Kevin Durant

A four-time Olympic gold medalist currently playing for the Houston Rockets, who has announced his intention to compete at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

LeBron James

An American professional basketball player who has confirmed he will not participate in the 2028 Olympics.

Stephen Curry

An American professional basketball player who has suggested his Olympic participation is unlikely.

Grant Hill

The USA Basketball Managing Director.

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What they’re saying

“Hell yeah, I want to play. I would love to, but I've got to stay on top of my game. I'm not expecting, I want to produce on the floor and make Grant [Hill] and whoever is making the decisions want to put me on the team. I don't want — not just for seniority. I want to still prove I can help the team win.”

— Kevin Durant (ESPN)

“You guys, the media, have projected that. That narrative, where did the last dance thing come from? I didn't say I wasn't playing. LeBron said he wasn't. You didn't hear that from me or Steph.”

— Kevin Durant (ESPN)

What’s next

The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles are expected to generate significant excitement, with speculation surrounding potential performances by other stars, including Kendrick Lamar. The possibility of seeing Durant continue his Olympic legacy on American soil adds another layer of anticipation.

The takeaway

Durant's commitment to competing in the 2028 Olympics at age 40 underscores a trend of veteran players extending their careers and remaining competitive at the highest levels. Like LeBron James, Durant appears unconcerned with letting age dictate his ambitions, and his focus remains on performance and contributing to team success, both in the NBA and on the international stage.