LeBron James will be the flag-bearer for Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics’ opening ceremony in Paris on Friday.
The NBA superstar’s fellow Olympians selected the two-time gold medalist to carry the Stars and Stripes.
James, 39, is the first men’s basketball player to receive the honor. Women’s hoops stars Sue Bird (2020) and Dawn Staley (2004) previously carried the flag.
“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,” James said in a statement from London, where Team USA will play its final pre-Olympic exhibition game Monday against Germany.
“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. Sports have the power to bring us all together, and I’m proud to be a part of this important moment.”
James is competing in his fourth Summer Games after winning gold in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012 and a bronze in Athens in 2004.
Fellow Team USA member Stephen Curry nominated the NBA’s all-time leading scorer for the honor.
“We are thrilled to announce LeBron James as one of two flag bearers who will lead Team USA in the Opening Ceremony, and officially open the Paris 2024 Games,” U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement. “Being selected by your teammates to carry the flag is a tremendous honor — and a testament to LeBron’s passion for Team USA and his dedication to his sport. We will watch with great pride as the flag bearers lead our athletes who are about to embark on a remarkable journey together.”
Team USA will announce a woman flag-bearer on Tuesday.
–Field Level Media
