LeBron James says it's too early to consider 2016 Olympics

Published Jan. 23, 2014 8:48 p.m. ET

foxsports

MIAMI -- Being among the players from which the 2016 U.S. Olympic team will be formed does not mean LeBron James will definitely play in games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

James was among the 28 players named Thursday morning to the pool from which will be formed the team to represent the United States during international competition the next three summers.

"I don't know where I stand for 2016," James said before Thursday night's game against the Los Angeles Lakers. "Obviously, if I'm healthy in 2016 that summer, if I can get to leading our country by playing, then that would be great to be a part of that.

"But I can't commit to it right now."

The pool -- split between 14 Team USA vets and 14 newcomers -- was chosen by USAB chairman Jerry Colangelo and coach Mike Krzyzewski. They also will select the 12-man rosters for both the World Cup, which starts in late August, and the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.

"It's just significant playing for Coach K," James said. "I love playing for Coach K. He's one of the beat coaches I've ever played for, if not the best."

On Thursday night, James and Miami teammate Dwyane Wade were announced as starters for the Eastern Conference squad in Feb. 16 All-Star Game in New Orleans.

Wade, sitting for the fourth consecutive game to rest his knees, did not speak to the media before the game against the Lakers.

James was the leading vote getter among the two teams.

"I'm honored with how many votes I've received and with the fans voting me in as an All-Star starter," James said. "I'm there ... if you get an opportunity from the fans, who vote in who they love and those 10 guys to be starters.

"There's also a fine line with me at this point in my 11th year. This is 10 straight for me. You wish you could get a couple days off here and there, but it is what it is and I'll be happy to be there."

Indiana's Paul George, New York's Carmelo Anthony and Cleveland's Kyrie Irving also were elected Eastern Conference starters.

You can follow Charlie McCarthy on Twitter @mccarthy_chas or email him at mac1763@bellsouth.net.