LeBron James is set to make history as the first American NBA player to achieve a remarkable Olympic milestone.
LeBron has been chosen to carry the American flag for the United States delegation during the opening ceremony of the Paris Games. This event, set to take place on Friday along the picturesque River Seine, will mark a historic moment for both James and Team USA.
The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) announced on Monday that James won a vote among nearly 600 members of Team USA to receive this honor. Additionally, a female athlete was selected as a co-flag bearer, with her identity to be revealed on Tuesday.
James expressed his immense pride and gratitude for being chosen. “It’s an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together,” said James, whose fame extends far beyond the borders of his home country as the face of the NBA and its all-time leading scorer.
“For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything to not only myself but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians, and so many people across the country with big aspirations,” he continued. “Sports have the power to bring us all together, and I’m proud to be a part of this important moment.”
This is not the first time a USA Basketball player has had the honor of carrying the flag. Sue Bird did so in 2021, and Dawn Staley in 2004. Steph Curry, who will be competing in his first Olympics, was also among the nominees for this prestigious role.
RELATED: LeBron James Gets Honest About Team USA After Nearly Losing To South Sudan
James’ Olympic journey began with a bronze medal in 2004 in Athens. He was a co-captain of the “Redeem Team” in 2008, which initiated a streak of four consecutive Olympic golds for the American men’s basketball team.
His last Olympic appearance was in 2012 in London. In addition to his Olympic achievements, James is Team USA’s all-time leader in assists, a four-time NBA champion, and a four-time league MVP. He has also set a record with 20 All-Star game appearances.
Sarah Hirshland, the chief executive of the USOPC, shared her pride in the chosen flag bearers. “We will watch with great pride as the flag bearers lead our athletes who are about to embark on a remarkable journey together,” she said in a release.
The opening ceremony in Paris will be a historic occasion as it will be the first ever held outside a stadium. It is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. local time (1:30 p.m. in New York) and will be broadcast live on NBC.
The ceremony will feature delegations floating on barges down the River Seine, concluding with an exit beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower.
The USOPC expects more than 350 of the 592 American athletes to participate in the ceremony, making it a grand spectacle of unity and celebration.
