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By Alice Gibbs
Senior Reporter
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Earlier this week, a video featuring former Democratic President Barack Obama sparked speculation about a potential political comeback in 2028 as he declared that he had "unfinished business."
While Obama has already served two terms as president, meaning he could not be eligible for another term, internet users were convinced that the message was hinting at the former president's return.
Now, the Obama Foundation has released a follow‑up video clarifying the meaning behind the cryptic teaser. The new clip, shared March 17, shows the teaser was part of a lighthearted sports promotion featuring NBA star Anthony Edwards—rather than a political announcement.
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Why It Matters
The original teaser, posted March 15, prompted widespread speculation online about whether Obama was hinting at a future political move, including unfounded claims about a possible 2028 presidential run.
The update puts those rumors to rest, revealing the video was designed to promote the upcoming Obama Presidential Center through a playful rivalry between Obama and Edwards.
What To Know
The new video picks up directly from the earlier clip, with Obama responding to a text message before saying, "Oh, you want some of this?"
He then steps outside to find Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards shooting on an outdoor basketball court. Edwards tosses the ball through the hoop and jokes, "I seen what going on with your jump shot."
The two go on to compete in a series of games, including basketball, Ping-Pong and Connect 4, before cooling off by dipping their feet in a pool and discussing a rematch. Obama closes the video by inviting Edwards to play again at the Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side once it opens
The friendly rivalry has roots in a viral moment from the 2024 Paris Olympics, captured in Netflix’s Court of Gold, when Obama asked Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid about Edwards’ game. Edwards confidently responded at the time: "Man, y’all better stand down. I’m the truth."
The pair have continued exchanging playful jabs since then. At the 2026 NBA All‑Star Game, Obama joked with Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff that he had "wore [Edwards] out yesterday," prompting the star himself to respond that Obama "did aight for an old man, though."
What Happens Next
The Obama Presidential Center is set to open to the public this summer, and the video ends by teasing a future rematch between Obama and Edwards at the site.
While the original teaser fueled political speculation, the latest release makes clear the campaign was focused on sports, culture and promoting the center—not a return to electoral politics.
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