Kevin Durant Eyes 5th Olympic Gold in 2028

NBA star aims to make Team USA roster despite increased international competition

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Kevin Durant has expressed his desire to compete for Team USA at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, but stressed his participation hinges on maintaining a high level of play. The four-time gold medalist wants to earn his spot on the team through performance, not seniority, as the U.S. faces a more challenging competitive landscape with the rise of international basketball talent.

Why it matters

Durant's potential participation could significantly strengthen Team USA's chances of success in 2028, but the increasing talent pool in international basketball, including teams like France, Serbia, Greece, and Slovenia, presents a significant shift in the competitive landscape that the U.S. will need to navigate.

The details

Durant told ESPN's Vincent Goodwill that he would 'love to' play in the 2028 Olympics, but stressed he doesn't want to be chosen based on past achievements alone. 'I don't want — not just for seniority. I want to still prove I can support the team win,' Durant said. The potential 2028 U.S. roster could also include rising stars like Anthony Edwards, Jayson Tatum, and Cade Cunningham, but the road to gold is expected to be more challenging than in previous years.

  • The 2028 Summer Olympics are scheduled to take place in Los Angeles.
  • Durant was a key player on the USA team that secured its fifth consecutive gold medal in men's basketball at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

The players

Kevin Durant

A four-time Olympic gold medalist and the U.S. Men's leading Olympic scorer, who intends to make his case for selection to the 2028 team.

LeBron James

The 43-year-old NBA star has indicated he will not participate in the 2028 Olympics.

Stephen Curry

The 39-year-old NBA player has not yet made a definitive decision about participating in the 2028 Olympics.

Victor Wembanyama

The French basketball player who is expected to bolster France's roster and be a strong contender for the 2028 Olympics.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Greek basketball player who is expected to lead Greece's team and be a strong contender for the 2028 Olympics.

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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.”

— Kevin Durant (ESPN)

“I don't want — not just for seniority. I want to still prove I can support the team win.”

— Kevin Durant (ESPN)

What’s next

The potential 2028 roster for Team USA will continue to take shape in the coming years, with the selection process expected to be highly competitive as the U.S. faces increased international challenges.

The takeaway

As the global basketball landscape evolves, veteran leadership and proven performance will be crucial for Team USA to maintain its dominance in the 2028 Olympics. Durant's desire to earn his spot on the team, rather than relying on past achievements, reflects the heightened competitive environment the U.S. will face in Los Angeles.