Kevin Durant, the most decorated player in men’s Olympic basketball history, has expressed his keen interest in participating in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, aiming for an unprecedented fifth gold medal. The Houston Rockets star, who will be 39 years old when the Games commence, made it clear that his potential inclusion hinges on his ability to remain a high-impact contributor, not merely a veteran presence.
Durant’s comments emerged during a recent event sponsored by Boardroom in Los Angeles, a city he might one day represent on the Olympic stage. “If I’m still me,” Durant stated, emphasizing his desire to be counted on for significant minutes and crucial plays, “I don’t want the gift of the veteran ‘come sit on the end of the bench.'” This condition underscores his competitive drive and his commitment to performing at an elite level, a standard he has maintained throughout his illustrious career.
An Unprecedented Olympic Legacy
Durant’s Olympic resume is already unparalleled. He has been a cornerstone of USA Basketball for over a decade, securing gold medals in the 2012 London, 2016 Rio de Janeiro, 2020 Tokyo, and 2024 Paris Games. This remarkable achievement makes him the first and only male basketball player to earn four Olympic gold medals, surpassing the previous record held by Carmelo Anthony. Beyond medals, Durant is also the all-time leading scorer for the U.S. men’s Olympic team, a testament to his consistent offensive brilliance on the international stage.
His journey with Team USA began in 2012, where he set a new U.S. Olympic scoring record. He continued to be a pivotal scorer in subsequent Games, often leading the team in points, even as rosters evolved with fellow superstars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry. The 2024 Paris Olympics saw Durant average 13.8 points per game, contributing significantly to the team’s undefeated run.
The ‘If I’m Still Me’ Clause for 2028
At 39, Durant would be among the oldest players to compete for Team USA if he makes the 2028 roster. However, his current performance suggests he could still be a force. During the 2024-2025 NBA season, playing for the Phoenix Suns, Durant averaged an impressive 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, showcasing that his scoring prowess remains elite. This sustained high level of play is precisely what he believes is necessary to earn a spot and contribute meaningfully in Los Angeles.
His sentiment reflects a broader trend in the NBA where players are extending their careers and maintaining top-tier performance well into their late 30s. Durant’s game, which relies heavily on skill, shooting, and basketball IQ rather than pure athleticism, is considered to age well. This bodes well for his aspiration to compete in 2028, provided his physical condition aligns with his high expectations.
A Changing of the Guard for Team USA
The landscape of USA Basketball is on the cusp of a significant generational shift. Many of the veteran stars who have anchored the team for years, including LeBron James and Stephen Curry, are unlikely to participate in the 2028 Games. This opens opportunities for emerging talents and ensures that the focus will likely be on the next wave of NBA stars. Durant, should he play, could serve as a vital link between the past era of dominance and the future, offering invaluable experience and leadership.
Players like Anthony Edwards, who gained significant experience in Paris 2024, are widely projected to be central figures for the 2028 squad, potentially becoming the face of the team. Durant’s presence, however, would offer a unique blend of proven championship pedigree and continued elite play, a combination few players can match.
Looking Ahead: Los Angeles and a Potential Farewell Tour
The prospect of Durant chasing a fifth gold medal in Los Angeles adds another compelling narrative to the 2028 Olympics. Playing on home soil in a city he has strong ties to could make for a fitting, albeit demanding, final Olympic chapter. His current team, the Houston Rockets, acquired him in July 2025, and his integration there will be closely watched as the lead-up to the 2028 Games continues.
While the decision ultimately rests on his physical state and performance level in the coming years, Kevin Durant’s openness to competing in 2028 signifies his enduring passion for the game and his commitment to representing his country. The basketball world will be watching to see if the legendary scorer can defy time once more and add another historic chapter to his already legendary Olympic story. This ongoing story remains a trending topic in sports news, with fans eager to follow Durant’s journey.
