LeBron James has previously dismissed the possibility of representing Team USA at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but Brian Windhorst believes the door will remain open for the NBA's all-time leading scorer.
Speaking on the latest episode of The Hoop Collective podcast, Windhorst said James would be guaranteed a place on the United States roster if he changed his mind and wanted to compete in a fifth Olympic Games.
"If LeBron wants to play, he'll get a roster spot," Windhorst stated.
Why LeBron could reconsider playing in 2028 Olympics?
Building on Windhorst's comment, ESPN's Tim MacMahon noted that James has already publicly ruled out another Olympic appearance, but suggested that the timing of the 2028 Games could make a return tempting.
"LeBron has said in November on his podcast, 'Don't even ask. I'll be watching it from Cabo,' but he just made it very clear he plans to play at least two more years for Philly," MacMahon said.
"He's gonna have his career end with the 2027-28 season, why not go out with the fifth Olympics? He's got a place in LA to stay, doesn't even have to stay in a hotel."
James has competed at four Olympic Games, winning bronze in 2004 before claiming gold medals in 2008, 2012, and 2024.
He played a leading role in Team USA's championship run at the Paris Olympics, where the Americans defeated France in the gold-medal game.
LeBron previously ruled out 2028 appearance
James had offered a very different answer when discussing the Los Angeles Olympics alongside Stephen Curry on the Mind the Game podcast.
"You already know my answer," James said. "So don't even ask. I will be watching it from Cabo."
Curry was less definitive but also indicated that another Olympic appearance was unlikely.
"It is the opposite answer of what I told him [LeBron] last year," Curry said. "It was like, God willing, I still have the choice and the physical option where I could actually impact the team. Never say never, but I highly doubt it."
James will be 43 years old when the 2028 Olympics take place, while Curry will be 40.