Can Kyrie Irving end up playing for Australia? We give you the keys

Dallas Mavericks' star, Kyrie Irving, has opened the door to a potential participation with the Australian national team at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Born in Melbourne, Irving mentioned during the All-Star Weekend that he is already in the process of exploring the possibility of representing the Boomers in the upcoming Olympic event.

"We are in that process right now," Irving told reporters on Sunday. "We are just trying to figure out what the best route is for me to be eligible. There is a lot of paperwork involved."

While Irving won a gold medal with the United States at the 2016 Rio Olympics, he was not selected for the past two editions of the tournament. Now, at 32 years old, the point guard is seeking a new international opportunity and sees Australia as an attractive destination to close out his career representing a nation he has birth ties with.

Is a federation switch possible?

For Irving to play with Australia in 2028, he needs approval from USA Basketball, FIBA, and Basketball Australia. FIBA generally allows players to switch federations once in their careers, provided they have not played in official senior national team competitions in the last three years. However, Irving's prior representation for the United States in an Olympic edition could pose a challenge in the process.

"Obviously, Team USA still has a decision to make," Irving acknowledged. "But for me, I am just trying to do my best. Honestly, if I can be an Aussie at some point in my career and play for the Australian team, it would be great."

Irving's impact on the Boomers

If Irving ultimately achieves eligibility, he would arrive at the 2028 Games at the age of 36, an advanced age for high-level competition, but with invaluable experience. Australia, which has shown significant growth in international basketball, could benefit from the veteran presence and quality of a player with his talent and leadership.

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