Kyrie in 'process' of joining Australia ahead of 2028 Olympics

Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving has expressed interest in representing Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

"We're in the process (of switching) right now, just trying to figure out the best route for me to be eligible," Irving said, according to Athlon Sports' Grant Afseth. "There's a lot of paperwork involved."

"Honestly, if I can be an Aussie at one point in my career and play for the Australian team, that would be great," he added.

Irving has only represented the United States at the international level. He won a gold medal at the 2016 Olympics and was named tournament MVP at the 2014 FIBA World Cup after winning another gold.

The 32-year-old was left off the last two U.S. Olympic squads.

Irving was born in Melbourne, Australia, while his father - an American citizen - was playing professional basketball. He has dual citizenship but would need USA Basketball and FIBA's approval to switch allegiance.

Irving, who would be 36 at the L.A. Games, could join one of the world's most talented rosters. A national-record 13 Australians were on NBA rosters to start the 2024-25 season, with only the United States, Canada, and France having more representation. The list of Boomers includes Dyson Daniels, Josh Green, Josh Giddey, and Jock Landale.

Australia won its first-ever medal in men's hoops at the 2020 Olympics (bronze) but failed to reach the podium in Paris.