Kevin Durant Targets LA28 Olympics as He Chases Fifth Basketball Gold Medal
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Kevin Durant has made it clear that he wants to compete for Team USA at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, where he could have an opportunity to make basketball history.
Durant will be 39 when the men’s basketball tournament begins at the Intuit Dome on July 13, 2028. The veteran forward already has four Olympic gold medals and is hoping to earn a fifth on home soil.
Durant’s Olympic Record
Durant has represented the United States at four Olympic Games and won gold on every occasion.
He has scored 518 Olympic points, the highest total by any American basketball player, male or female.
His Olympic gold medals came at:
- London 2012
- Rio 2016
- Tokyo 2020
- Paris 2024
Durant could become the first men’s basketball player to win five Olympic gold medals if he makes the U.S. squad for LA28.
His international résumé also includes a world championship title in 2010.
A Remarkable Career
By the time the Los Angeles Olympics arrive, Durant will be approaching the final stages of an outstanding NBA career.
The 16-time All-Star has won two NBA championships and an NBA Most Valuable Player award, in addition to his four Olympic titles.
His age, however, means his place on the LA28 roster is not guaranteed.
LeBron James provided an example of an elite veteran continuing to perform at the highest level when he helped the United States win gold at Paris 2024 at the age of 39 and was named tournament MVP.
Why Durant Wants to Return
Durant has spoken openly about his desire to represent the United States again.
Speaking about his international basketball experiences, Durant said playing for the national team has allowed him to travel to places he might never have visited otherwise.
He also highlighted the opportunity to play alongside some of the greatest players and compete for his country on the biggest stage.
For Durant, the chance to represent Team USA at a home Olympics would add another significant chapter to his international career.
LA28 Selection Is Not Guaranteed
Despite Durant’s impressive record and desire to return, a place on the 12-player Olympic roster will have to be earned.
Erik Spoelstra, head coach of the Miami Heat, is now in charge of the U.S. men’s national team after serving as an assistant coach at Paris 2024.
Team USA managing director Grant Hill will be responsible for roster decisions.
Durant acknowledged earlier in 2026 that his age and previous Olympic experience do not automatically guarantee him a place on the team.
“I know I’ve got my work cut out for me to make that team,” Durant said.
Durant’s LA28 Challenge
If selected, Durant would enter the Los Angeles Games with a chance to add another milestone to an already historic Olympic career.
His 518 Olympic points, four gold medals and extensive international experience make him one of the most accomplished American basketball players in Olympic history.
However, the final Team USA roster will depend on player selection and performance in the period leading up to the LA28 Olympics.
The men’s basketball tournament is scheduled to begin in July 2028, giving Durant time to compete for a place on what could be one of the most closely watched Olympic basketball teams in recent years.
