Kevin Durant Aims for Team USA in 2028

Kevin Durant has expressed his desire to represent the United States in basketball during the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

However, he clarified that he’s not looking to join the Lakers or Clippers—it’s about Team USA. “Yes, I want to play,” Durant stated in a conversation with ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill. “But I have to stay on top of my game. I don’t have expectations. I want to perform well and contribute to the team’s success, and I hope those making the decisions want me on board as well.” He emphasized that it isn’t solely about seniority; he wants to demonstrate his ability to help the team win.

“Today, yes, I’m going to put my name in that hat,” he added, indicating he’s ready to be considered for the team.

Durant is often hailed as one of basketball’s all-time greats, frequently mentioned alongside LeBron James and Stephen Curry as among the best of their era.

At 37, he had a standout season with Houston, averaging 26.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, with impressive shooting percentages of 50.6% from the field, 40.4% from beyond the arc, and 88.1% from the free-throw line.

His announcement about wanting to play in 2028 came as a surprise to many analysts. After Durant, James, and Curry collaborated to secure a gold medal for Team USA—defeating Serbia and subsequently France—there was speculation that the 2024 Olympics might be their final appearance together.

However, Durant quickly clarified that he and Curry had not confirmed any retirement plans from international play. “Where did that story, The Last Dance, come from?” he asked Goodwill. “I didn’t say I wasn’t playing. LeBron did; you didn’t hear that from me or Steph.”

Holding the record for the best Olympic career among U.S. male basketball players, Durant has won four gold medals. Securing a fifth would not only extend this record but also place him among the exclusive ranks of elite players.

In comparison, Diana Taurasi has six gold medals, leading the women’s category, while Sue Bird follows with five.

While Durant’s aspirations for 2028 are noteworthy, the immediate focus for Team USA is on coaching changes. Erik Spoelstra, head coach of the Miami Heat, has been named the new head coach for Team USA, succeeding Steve Kerr. Spoelstra, who has prior experience as part of Kerr’s staff during the 2024 Olympics, understands the demands of competing at an elite level amid increasing global competition.