Tatum has not ruled out the possibility of competing in 2028 Olympics

As the curtain closes on the 2024 Paris Olympics the focus now shifts to the 2028 Los Angeles Games and U.S. athletes are looking forward to competing on home turf, but there’s uncertainty surrounding whether Jayson Tatum will be part of the lineup.

Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas recently stirred the pot by suggesting that Tatum might take a pass on the next Olympics.

Tatum’s recent comments about his potential participation in 2028 were diplomatic, sparking speculation from Arenas, who interpreted the measured response as a sign that Tatum might be leaning towards not playing.

Arenas compared the situation to Caitlin Clark’s decision to skip the WNBA 3-point contest during All-Star Weekend, a choice she made to focus on her mental well-being.

“What can Caitlin Clark do to them at the All-Star Weekend? ‘I think I need some rest. Y’all looking for the three-pointer in contest? Yeah, I need some rest,'” Arenas said.

Clark‘s decision, which she described as necessary for her rest and recovery, was a move that caught many off guard, especially given her reputation as a sharpshooter.

Tatum could participate in 2028 Olympics

Tatum’s Olympic journey in 2024 wasn’t without its challenges. Limited playing time and injuries led to a less-than-stellar performance, and commentators like Charles Barkley and Jeff Teague have been vocal in their doubts about Tatum’s future with Team USA. Teague even went as far as to claim that Tatum is unlikely to ever participate in the Olympics again.

Despite the criticism and speculation, Tatum has not ruled out the possibility of competing in 2028. He acknowledged the difficulties he faced in Paris but made it clear that his decision will be based on careful consideration rather than the emotional toll of his previous experience.