It is expected that the 2025–26 NBA season could mark the final chapter of LeBron James’ legendary career. Questions are emerging not only about the league but also about Team USA’s long-term outlook on the international stage.
James has been a cornerstone of USA Basketball for nearly two decades, anchoring multiple Olympic runs with his leadership. However, as his career nears its anticipated conclusion, the reality of a post-LeBron era is beginning to settle in, especially with the 2028 Olympic Games set to take place on American soil in Los Angeles.
That looming transition is precisely what prompted Rich Paul to raise concerns about what lies ahead for Team USA.
Rich Paul Sounds Alarm on Team USA’s Post-LeBron James Reality
In a recent episode of his “Game Over” podcast, Max Kellerman and Paul discussed what it will be like for Team USA’s future post James’ retirement. Paul highlighted the challenges Team USA could face without its most reliable generational pillars. And also pointed out the difficulties presented by Team France in previous Olympic finals.
“The 2028 Olympics is going to be very interesting… We saw Team France this past Olympics. They were a lot to handle. The USA team is not going to have LeBron. They’re not going to have Steph, atleast I don’t think so. Is Jayson Tatum going to choose to play or not play? The pressure is on us because the Olympics is in L.A.,” Paul said.
Rich Paul is worried about team USA in 2028 vs Wemby and France because they won’t have LeBron and Steph 😬
“The 2028 Olympics is going to be very interesting. We saw team France this past Olympics. They were a lot to handle. The USA team is not going to have LeBron. They’re not… pic.twitter.com/ao3I9e8RfZ
— Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) December 17, 2025
Paul’s comments underline a shifting global balance, as International teams are no longer just competitive; they are confident, deep, and battle-tested. France, led by elite size and continuity, pushed Team USA harder than many anticipated, signaling that the margin for error is shrinking.
As in the last two Olympics, France made it to the final but fell short of capturing the gold. They lost 87-82 in 2020 and 98-87 in 2024.
If the 2025–26 season does indeed become LeBron’s final NBA campaign, Team USA will lose the stabilizing force that thrives in high-pressure, single-elimination environments such as the Olympics.
Paul also pointed to uncertainty around future stars committing to international play. While players like Jayson Tatum and Anthony Edwards, among others, represent the next generation, their availability, motivation, and fit are far from guaranteed.
With the 2028 Games taking place in Los Angeles, the stakes will be higher than ever, as home-court advantage brings pride as well as scrutiny.
As for this NBA season, James is averaging 17.6 points, shooting 46.9% from the field, along with 5.7 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game, while the Lakers sit third in the Western Conference with an 18-7 record.
