During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Team USA was led by the man who was the face of the league at the time. Kobe Bryant was all set to redeem the gold medal in the Olympics, however, the superstar spotlight did not have any effect on him in the foreign land. The Chinese loved Kobe Bryant and were all around him during his time in China. On the other hand, Michael Jordan‘s fame in Barcelona wasn’t any different. Decades later, the new captain of the ship, LeBron James is the star power of the squad. It was noticeable during the opening ceremony when the rest of the Olympians took as many pictures as they could with the King. 

It only makes, knowing that James has been around in the league for over twenty years. Quite a lot of the celebrity athletes today grew up watching James dominate in the league. However, not all of them were basketball players themselves. Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian footballer was a James fan himself, all thanks to his uncle. The Brazilian lived with his uncle when he was 12. His uncle, being a basketball fan would watch as many Heat games as they could. The number of games broadcasted in Brazil at the time was sparse. But as the league’s popularity grew with its best players, including LeBron, so did his supporters around the world.

Even though Vinicius was a football player, he drew his inspiration from James. “(LeBron James) was a bit of a superhero for me”, said Junior. Not only was he fascinated by James when he was young, but now that he’s a professional athlete himself, Vinicius wishes to match James’ longevity down the road. “God willing, I can play as long as he has”, added Vinicius. It is safe to say that James has been one of the most influential players of his era alongside Stephen Curry and other future Hall of Famers. On the other hand, we don’t see athletes draw inspiration from other sports quite often. However, given James’s dominance, there is no doubt that a footballer can take inspiration from him.

Being the celebrity he is, James also didn’t fail to entertain in the Olympics. Despite James’ short postseason run recently, he certainly has redeemed himself in Paris. The King stands atop the Olympic MVP ladder, showing why he’s one of the best players the game has ever seen. On his quest for his third gold medal, James’ run so far has been perfect. Now, as smooth things seem for James and company, is this his last Olympic appearance?

LeBron James might suit up in Summer of 2028

Like Vinicius, James’ supporters couldn’t be more hyped up if they saw James make his fifth Olympic appearance. Of course, by that time, James will be 43 and possibly retired. With how he’s been able to play at the highest level at his age, it seems that he’ll continue to defy the odds for a few more years. Regardless, Kevin Durant, who’s a three-time Olympic gold medalist believes that James might play in the upcoming Olympics. And there are multiple reasons as to why he should.

Being a Laker, James will be playing at home. If he does plan to retire from the league, he can still play in the Olympics. And if that will be the case, the 2028 Summer Olympics will definitely be his last. Also, the atmosphere to watch James in action for the last time will be something to witness. LeBron James is a global icon and considering his dominance, watching him play next Summer would be a historic feat. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see James bag his third gold medal as Team USA prepares for the Olympic playoffs.

What are your thoughts on LeBron James’ fame in Paris? Do you think he’ll be back with Team USA four years later? Let us know in the comments below.

Before leaving, do watch the Dual Threat Show hosted by BG12 where Bulldogs’ Asia Avinger details her experience with Kobe Bryant, her WNBA ROTY picks, and more in the video below.