Two-time USA gold medallist LeBron James has already started planning the Rio Olympics in 2016.
Eight days have passed since the 107-100 win over Spain in London, and James, who said to reporters after the medal ceremony that he was finished with the Olympics has now changed his mind.
He admits though that he hasn’t informed USA Basketball of his intentions.
“We haven’t had that conversation,” James told the Associated Press. “But if I’m healthy, I did the math and I’ll be 31, and if I have the opportunity to be out there, I will do it. I love it. I love being a part of it and representing my country. I don’t know what may happen in four years, but it would be great to be back out there again. Definitely.”
James has had a year to remember as the Akron, Ohio native scooped the NBA regular season MVP, an NBA championship and Finals MVP with Miami Heat to go with his Olympic gold medal.
He now wants to target a third gold medal in four Olympic appearances. James got a bronze medal in Athens in 2004.
James was honoured on Sunday during a minor league game for his recent accomplishments, which included an MVP award, NBA title and the gold medal and, more importantly for giving back to Akron, where his “Wheels For Education” initiative has provided inner-city kids with supplies, programs, mentors, and above all, hope.
James was inspiring a generation, the famous motto of the now past 2012 Olympic Games.
“I was one of these kids,” James said. “It means everything to me to be able to give back. I have a passion for it. I love seeing kids smile, and for them to have someone who can lead them. For me to be in this position and being able to help and give back, means a lot.”
During his time on the field, there were a few fans who booed and shouted words like ‘traitor’ to the former Cleveland Cavalier, who publically announced he was going to Miami leaving his hometown fans angry. But the majority of the 3,000-plus fans were desperate to get a look at their hero.
James didn’t disappoint.
