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The Most Realistic Team USA Roster For The 2028 LA Olympics

By Fran Leiva,

5 hours ago

After a gold-medal run in the Paris 2024 Olympics led by aging superstars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, Team USA will face a major transition heading into the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. With many of the 2024 squad members unlikely to return due to age or retirement, a fresh crop of talent is set to take the stage. Players like Anthony Edwards, Jayson Tatum, and Devin Booker are expected to lead the charge, while rising stars such as Chet Holmgren, Cooper Flagg, and Paolo Banchero could inject new energy into the roster. As we look ahead to 2028, it’s time to project which players will don the USA jersey and chase Olympic gold on home soil.

Potential Team USA Roster

PG - Ja Morant, Trae Young, De’Aaron Fox

SG - Devin Booker, Donovan Mitchell

SF - Anthony Edwards, Jayson Tatum

PF - Kevin Durant, Zion Williamson

C - Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo, Chet Holmgren

Point Guards

Ja Morant, Trae Young, De'Aaron Fox

Trae Young missed out on the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where Team USA fell short in the semifinals, sparking disappointment among fans and players alike. Young has always expressed a strong desire to represent his country on the international stage, and the 2028 Olympics could be his big chance to shine. Known for his elite playmaking and deep shooting range, Young's inclusion would add a new dynamic to Team USA’s backcourt, giving them a potent offensive weapon.

Ja Morant , on the other hand, brings an unparalleled level of athleticism and explosiveness to the point guard position. By 2028, Morant will be in his prime, offering Team USA a guard who can attack the rim with ferocity while also dishing out assists with flair. His ability to change the pace of the game and provide highlight-reel plays makes him a perfect fit for the fast-paced style of play that often dominates Olympic basketball.

De'Aaron Fox is another intriguing option for Team USA. Fox’s speed and defensive tenacity make him an ideal candidate to lead the charge on both ends of the court. His growth as a floor general has been evident, and by 2028, he could be one of the premier point guards in the league, ready to bring his talents to the international stage.

While Morant, Young, and Fox are strong contenders, Tyrese Haliburton remains a significant candidate as well. Haliburton had a standout performance in the 2023 World Cup, showcasing his ability to elevate his teammates and efficiently manage the game. Although his role in the 2024 Olympics was limited, his versatility and skill set make him a likely fixture for Team USA in future competitions. Haliburton’s ability to adapt to different roles, whether as a primary ball-handler or an off-ball threat, makes him an invaluable asset for the 2028 roster.

Potential Candidates: Tyrese Haliburton, Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey

All of these candidates are already prominent figures in the league. Tyrese Haliburton is coming off two international tournaments with Team USA in the last year, while Jalen Brunson rose to stardom at the NBA level with the Knicks, and Tyrese Maxey offers another youth injection as he steadily progresses into an All-Star.

Shooting Guards

Devin Booker, Donovan Mitchell

Devin Booker is already a proven commodity on the international stage, having solidified his place as one of Team USA’s most reliable scorers. By 2028, Booker will be in his early 30s, bringing a wealth of experience and a polished offensive game to the table. His ability to score at all three levels, combined with his improved defense and playmaking, makes him a lock for the shooting guard spot. Booker’s adaptability, whether taking over games or playing within the team structure, is invaluable in the high-stakes environment of the Olympics.

During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Booker played a crucial role for Team USA, averaging 11.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. Although his stats might not have been the flashiest on the roster, Booker’s impact was felt every time he stepped on the court, leading the team in minutes played and providing steady scoring and playmaking. His ability to adapt and contribute in multiple facets of the game earned him praise, with some even calling him the "unsung MVP" of Team USA's gold medal run .

Donovan Mitchell , known for his explosive scoring ability and leadership, is another key candidate for the 2028 roster. Mitchell’s tenacity on both ends of the court, combined with his ability to take over games in crucial moments, gives Team USA a dynamic offensive presence. His experience in the 2019 World Cup and his prime years ahead make him an essential part of this projected roster. Mitchell's scoring versatility, particularly his ability to create his own shot, will be critical against the world's top defenses.

Potential Candidates: Jalen Green, Brandin Podziemski, Cade Cunningham

These up-and-coming stars are poised to challenge for a spot on the 2028 roster. Jalen Green brings elite athleticism and scoring potential, Brandin Podziemski offers a combination of shooting and playmaking that’s quickly gaining attention, and Cade Cunningham, with his size and versatility, could be a valuable asset as a secondary ball-handler and defender. Each of these players has the potential to make a significant impact on Team USA's future, depending on their development over the next few years

Small Forwards

Anthony Edwards, Jayson Tatum

Anthony Edwards has quickly become one of the most exciting young players in the NBA, and his performance in the 2024 Olympics only solidified his status as a future star for Team USA. Averaging 15.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, Edwards was a key contributor on both ends of the floor, showcasing his ability to score from anywhere and defend multiple positions. By 2028, Edwards will be entering his prime, making him a cornerstone for the U.S. squad. His combination of athleticism, shooting, and defensive prowess will be critical as Team USA looks to defend its gold medal on home soil.

Jayson Tatum , another mainstay for Team USA, brings experience, versatility, and elite two-way play to the small forward position. Despite some challenges in the 2024 Olympics, where his role was somewhat limited, Tatum remains one of the most talented players in the world. His ability to score in isolation, create for teammates, and guard multiple positions makes him an essential part of the roster. By 2028, Tatum will be 30 years old, likely at the peak of his powers, and ready to lead Team USA in what could be his third Olympic appearance.

Potential Candidates: Cooper Flagg, Brandon Miller, Brandon Ingram

These young forwards offer a glimpse into the future of Team USA. Cooper Flagg, a rising star with immense potential, has already made waves in the basketball world with his defense and scoring ability for the USA Select Team. Brandon Miller, with his size and shooting touch, could be a perfect fit as a versatile forward, while Brandon Ingram, if he decides to join after a bad international experience in 2023, offers length and scoring that can stretch defenses.

Why Is There No Jaylen Brown On This List?

Jaylen Brown, once a strong candidate for future Team USA rosters, appears to have burned bridges with key figures in the organization, particularly Grant Hill, after the fallout from the 2024 Olympics. Brown was reportedly unhappy with his non-selection and the overall team dynamic, leading to tensions that could affect his chances of returning for future Olympic teams. While his talent is undeniable, and he remains one of the best two-way players in the league, the friction with Team USA management might keep him off the 2028 roster, especially as the team looks to build chemistry and unity for a run at gold in Los Angeles.

Power Forwards

Kevin Durant, Zion Williamson

Kevin Durant might not have put up his usual eye-popping numbers in Paris, but he still got the job done. Averaging 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, KD was a steady presence for Team USA, helping them secure yet another gold medal. With that victory, Durant now has four Olympic gold medals—more than any other player in basketball history. Not to mention, he’s the all-time leading scorer for Team USA in the Olympics, with over 600 points to his name. He just keeps adding to his legendary resume.

By the time the 2028 Olympics roll around, Durant will be pushing 40. But don’t count him out just yet. Much like LeBron James in 2024, KD could take on a mentor role, guiding the young guns while still making an impact on the court. If he does suit up, it could be his "last dance," with a chance to grab an unprecedented fifth gold medal. That would be the perfect cherry on top of one of the greatest basketball careers we’ve ever seen.

Zion Williamson, on the other hand, is all about the future. Assuming he can stay healthy, Zion will be in his prime by 2028 and ready to dominate. His combination of size, strength, and explosive athleticism makes him a nightmare for defenders and a perfect fit for international play. Zion’s ability to bully opponents in the paint while also stretching the floor with his improving jumper would make him a key piece for Team USA. If he’s on the roster, you can expect some highlight-reel dunks and game-changing plays that will leave fans in awe.

Potential Candidates: Paolo Banchero, Jabari Smith Jr., Evan Mobley

These rising stars are poised to make a significant impact on the international stage. Paolo Banchero, with his combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ, could be a central figure for Team USA by 2028. His ability to play both inside and out makes him a versatile threat. Jabari Smith Jr. offers elite shooting and defensive versatility, while Evan Mobley brings length, shot-blocking, and a growing offensive game to the power forward position.

Centers

Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo, Chet Holmgren

Anthony Davis has been a dominant force for Team USA in the past, and if his health holds up, there’s no reason to think he won’t be back in 2028. AD’s ability to protect the rim, rebound, and stretch the floor with his shooting makes him an ideal fit for international play. By the time the 2028 Olympics roll around, Davis will be in the latter stages of his career, but his experience and defensive versatility could still make him a valuable asset for Team USA. Assuming he’s healthy, Davis would be a great anchor in the middle for a younger, more dynamic squad.

Bam Adebayo, meanwhile, has already proven himself on the international stage, and his defensive versatility and playmaking from the center position are exactly what Team USA needs. Bam will be 31 in 2028, still very much in his prime, and his ability to guard multiple positions, run the floor, and even initiate offense makes him a lock for the roster. His experience and toughness will be critical as Team USA faces off against the world’s best big men.

Then there’s Chet Holmgren, the future of the center position for Team USA. By 2028, Holmgren will have several years of NBA experience under his belt, and his combination of length, shot-blocking, and shooting will make him a nightmare matchup for international teams. Holmgren’s ability to stretch the floor on offense while protecting the rim on defense could make him a key piece for Team USA as they transition into a new era of basketball.

Potential Candidates: Jalen Duren, Jaren Jackson Jr., Walker Kessler

These young centers are all about potential and could make a strong case for inclusion on the 2028 roster. Jalen Duren is a physical specimen with a powerful presence in the paint, while Jaren Jackson Jr. brings elite shot-blocking and floor-spacing ability. Walker Kessler is another intriguing option, with his shot-blocking and rebounding making him a valuable defensive anchor.

Why Is There No Joel Embiid On This List?

The absence of Joel Embiid from this list might raise some eyebrows, but the reality is, there’s a good chance he might play for Cameroon in the 2028 Olympics . Embiid, who was born in Cameroon, has been at the center of speculation about which national team he would represent. The drama has been ongoing, with Embiid initially leaning towards Team USA, given his American citizenship, but also expressing a desire to honor his roots by playing for Cameroon after obtaining his gold medal.

Would This Roster Win The Gold Again?

The "Avengers" of Team USA barely escaped with a win over Serbia in the 2024 Olympics, reminding everyone that the gap between the U.S. and the rest of the world is shrinking fast. And let's not forget the disaster at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where a more experimental, younger Team USA squad stumbled to a fourth-place finish, leaving without a medal. The competition is fiercer than ever, with international teams led by superstars like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, and Giannis Antetokounmpo challenging the U.S. dominance on the global stage.

As we look ahead to the 2028 Olympics, the road to gold might be tougher than it’s been in a long time. Without the likes of Stephen Curry and LeBron James, and with Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis nearing the end of their careers, this could be one of the most competitive Olympics in recent memory. However, if the young talent that Team USA is projected to bring—guys like Anthony Edwards, Zion Williamson, and Chet Holmgren—can continue to develop into true superstars, they’ll have a fighting chance.

The X-factor? The 2028 Olympics will be held in Los Angeles, giving Team USA the home-court advantage. Playing in front of a supportive home crowd could provide that extra boost they need to push past the competition and reclaim the gold. While the challenge is real, the combination of emerging stars and the energy of playing on U.S. soil might just be enough to bring home the gold once again.