As we already look forward to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, Team USA’s quest for basketball supremacy will inevitably focus on assembling a roster capable of defending their gold medal from the 2024 Paris Games. The 2024 team, led by LeBron James (Olympics MVP), Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, secured the top podium spot, cementing a legacy of dominance on the international stage. With the likes of LeBron James and Stephen Curry having retired from the Olympic arena, the spotlight now turns to who will lead the charge in 2028.
While Kevin Durant (39 years old in 2028) and Anthony Davis (35) potentially remain pivotal figures with windows to contribute, the landscape of American basketball will be shaped by a new generation of stars. However, as the 2028 team takes shape, several current NBA icons are unlikely to make the cut. We will explore 10 NBA stars who are most likely to miss out on playing for Team USA in 2028.
1. Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid’s future with Team USA seems increasingly unlikely as he has expressed strong ties to his Cameroonian roots. As a player with deep connections to his homeland, it’s anticipated that Embiid will prioritize representing Cameroon over joining Team USA. After snubbing Cameroon (and France) in the 2024 Olympics and getting boos throughout the stadium as a result, the former NBA MVP could be looking for a new challenge despite averaging 11.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game en route to the gold medal.
Furthermore, Embiid’s presence on the international stage with Cameroon could further solidify his legacy as a global ambassador of the sport. With his formidable skill set and leadership, he remains a potential game-changer for his home country. This dedication to Cameroon aligns with his previous statements and actions, making it improbable for him to join Team USA’s roster in 2028.
2. Jaylen Brown
Jaylen Brown’s Olympic future appears uncertain, primarily due to recent tensions within the Team USA setup. The fallout from his conflicts with Grant Hill, a key figure in the U.S. basketball program, has potentially jeopardized his standing with the national team. Such strained relationships can impact a player’s selection, particularly when new talent emerges and the team’s dynamics shift.
Moreover, Brown’s path to the 2028 Olympics will be closely scrutinized, especially if lingering issues remain unresolved. The fact that Jaylen Brown, the reigning Finals MVP, was not selected to participate in Team USA’s roster in 2024 was not a great look and it is unlikely the player would be willing to move on and decide to suit up for his country.
3. Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard’s Olympic future is in doubt due to his ongoing health issues and the possibility of retiring from international play. Leonard has been a key player for Team USA in the past, but his recent struggles with injuries and his age will likely affect his availability for the 2028 Games.
The national team will need players who can consistently perform at a high level throughout the tournament. Given Leonard’s recent history of injuries and his potential decision to step away from international play, his future with the Americans seems murky. Add in the fact that Kawhi had to drop out of the 2024 Olympics due to injury, at 33 years old, makes it unlikely he will be healthy by the time he is 37.
4. Kyrie Irving
Kyrie Irving’s relationship with Team USA seems to be definitively over. His previous decisions and public statements suggest a break from the national program, which diminishes the likelihood of his return. Irving’s departure from the team is seen as final, with his focus shifting away from representing his country.
At the same time, the evolving team dynamics and younger talent emerging in the guard positions make it improbable for Irving to return. The national program is likely to seek fresh faces and new energy, making it unlikely that Irving will be recalled for the 2028 Olympics. However, it does seem that Irving might be willing to spend his time focusing on delivering an NBA title to the Dallas Mavericks.
5. Damian Lillard
Since he will be 38 years old, Damian Lillard will face significant hurdles if he aims to compete in the 2028 Olympics. The physical demands of international play at that age are considerable, and while Lillard’s skill and leadership are undeniable, his age could be a limiting factor. The grueling nature of the Olympics might prove too taxing for a player of his age.
Furthermore, the emergence of younger, fresher talent will likely make Lillard’s selection less feasible. As the team looks to build for the future, younger point guards (including superstar Ja Morant and Tyrese Maxey) with the stamina and agility to match the international competition will be prioritized, leaving Lillard’s Olympic dreams in doubt.
6. Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton, despite his impressive skills, faces stiff competition for a spot on Team USA’s 2028 roster. By then, the landscape of American point guards will feature standout names such as Ja Morant, Trae Young, and Tyrese Maxey, who are likely to be favored for their high-impact performances and established synergy with the national team.
Additionally, Haliburton’s playing style may not align perfectly with the team’s evolving needs. While his versatility is commendable, the national team’s preference for players who fit seamlessly into their system could place him at a disadvantage. Haliburton hardly had a chance to prove his worth with Team USA in the 2024 Olympics, averaging 2.7 points and 0.7 assists per game in 8.7 minutes per game, so he might opt to focus on the Indiana Pacers moving forward.
7. Derrick White
Derrick White’s selection for the 2028 Team USA roster faces significant obstacles due to his role in the 2024 Olympics as a fill-in. While White’s contributions were valuable (3.8 PPG, 1.4 SPG, and 1.0 BPG while playing elite defense, the competition for guard spots will be intense with the rise of other high-profile players. The team is likely to prioritize players with a more established track record and higher profile.
White’s versatility and defensive prowess are notable, but they may not be enough to secure a spot in the 2028 lineup. The national team will look to build around recognized stars and emerging talents, making it difficult for White to maintain a position on the roster.
8. Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram’s chances of making the 2028 Team USA roster appear slim due to the presence of more established and high-performing players. While Ingram’s talent is evident, the depth of talent available means that he will have to compete with standout players like Zion Williamson and Jayson Tatum, who offer a more dynamic presence.
Ingram’s skill set, while impressive, may not provide the same level of impact as these other stars. The competition for spots will be fierce, and with the emergence of new talents and the return of seasoned players, Ingram might struggle to secure a place on the national team.
9. Paolo Banchero
Paolo Banchero’s chances of making the 2028 Team USA roster are slim given the depth of talent expected at the power forward position. By then, established stars like Zion Williamson and Jayson Tatum, along with versatile centers like Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo, will likely dominate the roster. Banchero will need to compete against these high-caliber players, which will be a formidable challenge.
Additionally, the emergence of promising young talents such as Cooper Flagg will further complicate Banchero’s path to the team. With the team’s focus on assembling a lineup that can compete at the highest level, Banchero will have to significantly elevate his game to earn a spot.
10. Cade Cunningham
Cade Cunningham’s Olympic aspirations may be hampered by his current level of experience and performance. At the time of the 2028 Games, Cunningham may still be developing his game and lacking the requisite experience to make a significant impact on the national team. The selection process will favor players who have demonstrated consistent high-level play and leadership.
Additionally, the depth of talent in his position will make it challenging for Cunningham to secure a spot. With a roster potentially featuring more experienced and proven players, Cunningham will need to elevate his game considerably to compete for a place on the 2028 team.
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