Bronny and LeBron’s massive contracts with Nike will weigh on the selection in four years.
Team USA is still riding high after their triumphant gold medal victory at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. But with the excitement of that win starting to settle, all eyes are turning to the next major challenge on the horizon: the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
As some of the biggest icons in American basketball—legends like LeBron James and Stephen Curry—edge closer to retirement, the conversation is shifting to who will take up the mantle for Team USA. Among the many rising stars, one name is generating the most buzz: Bronny James, the son of LeBron, also known as the “King.”
As anticipation builds for the 2028 Games, fans and analysts alike are eagerly speculating whether Bronny will step into the spotlight and follow in his father’s legendary footsteps.
Nike, a powerhouse in the world of basketball, might significantly influence Bronny James’ journey to the Olympics. With the young athlete already under a lucrative contract with Nike, some analysts and insiders believe his path to joining Team USA could be expedited.
While players like Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Haliburton are strong contenders to secure spots on the team if they continue their current trajectory, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has thrown out some wildcard suggestions—including none other than Bronny James.
Gilbert Arena’s Take
In a recent episode of his podcast, Gil’s Arena, Gilbert Arenas shared his thoughts on the potential lineup for the next Dream Team at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. He highlighted stars like Ja Morant and Zion Williamson as possible candidates, but acknowledged the significant challenges both players face.
Morant’s off-court controversies, including a suspension for displaying a firearm on social media, mean he would need to maintain a spotless record for the next four years to even be considered, according to Arenas. On the other hand, Zion’s ongoing health issues, which have prevented him from completing a full NBA season, cast doubt on his ability to be a reliable team member in 2028.
Arenas also touched on Jaylen Brown’s situation. Despite being named MVP of the latest NBA Finals, Brown’s strained relationship with Nike reportedly kept him off the Paris 2024 roster, putting his future with Team USA in question as well.
The Nike connection
This rift with Nike might have inadvertently paved the way for Bronny James to step into the spotlight and potentially take Jaylen Brown’s spot in the next Olympic lineup. Bronny, who is strongly endorsed by Nike, could be the brand’s next big star on the international stage.
“I got one. Y’all gonna be mad. But you know who’s ‘Mr. Nike’? Bronny,” Arenas quipped during his podcast, Gil’s Arena. Though his comment was made in jest, it reflects a growing belief that Bronny’s close ties with Nike could secure him a place on Team USA’s 2028 roster, especially if rumors about Brown’s exclusion hold any truth.
This speculation leads to the burning question on everyone’s mind: Could LeBron James delay his retirement to share the court with his son at the 2028 Olympics? While only time will reveal the answer, with Nike’s support and the mounting excitement around Bronny, the possibility feels more tangible than ever.
