Team USA is still basking in the glory of their gold medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, but the focus is already shifting to the next big challenge: Los Angeles 2028.

With some of the biggest names in American basketball, like LeBron James and Stephen Curry, approaching retirement, speculation about their successors has begun to swirl. And one name is sparking more buzz than others: Bronny James, son of the “King” himself.

Nike, one of the most influential forces in basketball, could play a major role in boosting Bronny’s Olympic chances. The young star, already signed to a massive deal with Nike, may find his path to Team USA fast-tracked, according to analysts and insiders.

With LeBron James and Curry, at ages 39 and 36 respectively, likely bowing out of the Olympic stage after their Paris triumph, new talent is needed to fill the void. Players like Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Haliburton seem almost certain to make the team if they maintain their current levels. However, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has a few wildcard suggestions, including Bronny James.

In Arenas’ opinion

During his podcast, Gil’s Arena, Arenas weighed in on the potential lineup for the next Dream Team. He mentioned stars like Ja Morant and Zion Williamson as candidates for LA 2028, but both come with serious question marks.

Morant, plagued by off-court issues including a suspension for brandishing a firearm on social media, would need “four years of cleanliness” to be considered for the team, Arenas noted. Similarly, Zion’s health struggles have prevented him from completing a full NBA season, raising doubts about his future.

Jaylen Brown, despite being named MVP of the most recent NBA Finals, also finds himself in an uncertain position for 2028. His strained relationship with Nike reportedly cost him a spot on the Paris 2024 team.

The Nike connection

This very rift with the brand is what has opened the door for Bronny James, who is heavily endorsed by Nike, to potentially take Brown’s spot in the next Olympic lineup.

“I got one. Y’all gonna be mad. Cause you all know who’s ‘Mr. Nike.’ Bronny,” Arenas said with a laugh. While said in jest, Arenas’ statement touches on a growing belief that Bronny’s Nike connections could guarantee him a place on the 2028 roster, especially if the conspiracy theories surrounding Brown’s exclusion are true.

And the big question on everyone’s mind: will LeBron James delay his retirement for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to share the court with his son at the 2028 Olympics? Only time will tell, but with Nike’s backing and the growing buzz around Bronny, the possibility seems more real than ever.