The United States Olympic Committee has officially announced that LeBron James, a two-time gold medalist and four-time Olympian, will serve as one of the flag bearers for Team USA at the forthcoming Paris Games. This significant appointment marks James as the first male basketball player from the United States to receive the esteemed honor of leading the team during the opening ceremony, thereby creating a historic milestone in his illustrious career. It is noteworthy to mention that the previous flag bearers from the basketball realm were Sue Bird and Dawn Staley.
The selection of flag bearers entails a process of nomination and voting among fellow members of Team USA, during which James was nominated for the distinguished role by his teammate, Stephen Curry. Upon receiving the news, James conveyed his appreciation by stating, “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.”
The NBA superstar also underscored the significance of this responsibility, not only for himself, but also for his family, his hometown of Akron, his teammates, fellow Olympians, and aspiring individuals across the nation. He emphasized the unifying power of sports and expressed his pride in being part of this momentous occasion.
As James prepares to participate in his fourth Olympic Games, it is pertinent to note that he joins the esteemed company of Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant as the only American male athletes to have competed in the Olympics four times. His Olympic journey commenced in 2004, when the U.S. men’s team secured a bronze medal. Subsequently, James played a pivotal role in the 2008 “Redeem Team” that clinched the gold in Beijing. He continued his winning streak in 2012, earning another gold medal. Now, as his professional career approaches its conclusion, he is rejoining the men’s team for the Paris Olympics with the objective of securing Team USA’s fifth consecutive gold medal.
Following James’s selection as the flag bearer, Sarah Hirshland, the Chief Executive Officer of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, lauded his commitment to Team USA and the sport of basketball, describing his appointment as “a testament to LeBron’s passion for Team USA and his dedication to his sport.” She expressed pride in the flag bearers who will lead the athletes as they embark on their remarkable Olympic journey.
The female representative who will join James as a flag bearer will be announced on Tuesday, adding to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the upcoming games. The opening ceremony for the 2024 Olympics is scheduled to take place on Friday, July 26 at 1:30 p.m. ET. This grand event marks the beginning of an eagerly awaited Olympic spectacle, with James proudly carrying the flag for Team USA, epitomizing the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and excellence.