LeBron James Chosen As Flag Bearer For Team USA
LeBron James has been chosen as the male flag bearer for Team USA at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics on July 26th. The four-time NBA champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, at 39 years old, will be participating in his fourth Olympic Games.
“It’s an incredible honour to represent the United States"
Stephen Curry and USA Basketball nominated James for the flag bearer role, and Curry even filmed a video supporting the nomination. James was then selected for this honour in a vote from his fellow Team USA athletes.
“It’s an incredible honour 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. “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 said. For many, his selection as flag bearer is a recognition of his contributions both on and off the court, embodying the spirit and aspirations of Team USA.
James, who has won gold medals in Beijing 2008 and London 2012, and a bronze in Athens 2004, is the first men's basketball player to carry the flag for Team USA. The female flag bearer, who will also participate in the opening ceremony, will be announced on Tuesday.
2024 Olympics Marks First Time Opening Ceremony Will Be Held Outside The Stadium
The ceremony will be held on the River Seine, marking the first time in summer Olympic history that the opening ceremony will take place outside the main stadium. This unique setting will see James and his female counterpart carrying the flag on a barge, with other teams following in boats down the river in front of 300,000 spectators.
The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) CEO Sarah Hirshland praised James, saying, "Being selected by your teammates to carry the flag is a tremendous honour - 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."
The anticipation for the opening ceremony grows as the world awaits the start of the 2024 Summer Olympics, where athletes from around the globe will come together to compete and celebrate the spirit of the Games.
