Kobe Bryant -- In the Running for 2016 USA Olympic Team

Kobe Bryant could still have some basketball left in him after the NBA season -- 'cause we're told he's still a very strong contender to be on the Team USA hoops squad during the 2016 Olympics.

TMZ Sports spoke with Team USA rep Craig Miller who tell us ... Kobe is definitely being considered for the '16 roster.

"Kobe is one of 34 players in the U.S. Men's National team pool. The 12 players who will play for Team USA are selected from that pool."

Miller says the final decision will come down to Kobe's health and the overall composition of the team ... but it seems Bryant's got a pretty good shot.

"Kobe's been involved with the national team since 2007. It's not like he has to prove himself."

Miller stressed that they're not necessarily looking for the 12 best individual players -- but the best 12 players who would make the best overall team ... and clearly, they feel Bryant's experience could be very valuable.

In the end, Miller says the decision will ultimately be up to Team USA basketball director Jerry Colangelo and head coach Mike Krzyzewski.