Team USA’s roster for the FIBA World Cup has intrigued one and all. Unlike the routine star-studded lineup, the team chose to recruit young talent from across the NBA. This raised the question of what Team USA would look like next year, when the more prestigious Olympic Games come around. This also prompted a question of whether the likes of LeBron James will make a final appearance in Team USA colors.
LeBron James is entering his 21st season in the NBA and is still reigning supreme. The Akron Hammer has played a pivotal role on the Los Angeles Lakers roster despite his age. Being incredibly competitive even at the age of 38 is no joke. However, no one can predict how long this can sustain. Apart from this, the Los Angeles Lakers forward has shared a deep connection with his family. A veteran analyst believes this could be one of the reasons why James may not feature in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Will LeBron James make a comeback in Team USA colors?
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LeBron James had an incredible stint in Team USA for several years. Despite not losing a step since, the King has not represented the nation in over a decade. However, going into his 21st season in the NBA and turning 39, one may assume that the end of James’ legendary career is not too far. Given this, the last time he may get to represent Team USA is in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
But after the cardiac arrest scare of his son Bronny James, The King is closer than ever to his family. He has been a loving father and husband in the James Gang for several years. However, this was seen as a concern by veteran analyst Brian Windhorst while addressing James’ return to Team USA.
“He never rules it out, typically, until the end. Like if you got…..right now he’s dealing with his family issue. But he typically would leave the door open,” said Windhorst, talking about James’ attitude towards representing the nation. “He has now not played in over a decade. So that’s obviously a factor. Plus, he likes spending time with his family at you know, his boys’ AAU events in the summer, not sure if the Olympics come much earlier….you’re cutting into the heart of the summer there….”
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Windhorst disregarded the chances of LeBron James returning to the Team USA roster. However, how has he fared during his time with the team?
The King reigned supreme all over the world
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Despite not representing Team USA for more than a decade, LeBron James’ stint with the national side will be remembered forever. In 68 games played for Team USA, James displayed his brilliance on the international stage.
The 4 time NBA champion brought his winning ways to Team USA too, winning two gold medals and a bronze medal in the Olympics. In 68 games, he amassed 979 points, ranking third all-time in points scored for USA Basketball. He also ranks third all-time in rebounds, grabbing a total of 281 rebounds. He most impressively posted the first triple double in U.S. Olympic history in the London Olympics against Australia. His 12 assists in that game also tied the all-time U.S. Olympic single-game high.
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The 4-time MVP may prioritize his family now but has served the nation extraordinarily in his time. Now, it is up to the young contingent of the FIBA World Cup to prove that they do not need a LeBron James to win laurels for the nation.