PARIS: LeBron James will be one of two American athletes to carry the American flag during the opening ceremony of the upcoming Paris Olympics, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced on Monday.
Two athletes, one male and one female, will carry the American flag and will be chosen by a vote of their fellow Olympic athletes. While James has been confirmed as the male flag bearer, the female flag bearer will be announced on Tuesday.
“We are thrilled to announce LeBron James as one of two flag bearers to lead Team USA in the opening ceremony and officially open the Paris 2024 Games,” said Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the USOPC.
“To be chosen by his 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.”
James’ teammate and NBA star Steph Curry nominated him as the flag bearer.
“We understand what an honor it is to be in this position, and I think Bron’s entire career on and off the court speaks for itself because he deserves this honor,” Curry said in the nomination video.
Widely regarded as one of the NBA’s greatest players of all time, James also became the top scorer last year after years of showing unmatched consistency and determination. He has led Team USA to three medals so far, including two golds.
James has two Olympic gold medals from the 2008 and 2012 games and a bronze with the 2004 team in Athens. In 2012, James became the only player, alongside the legendary Michael Jordan, to win the NBA MVP award, the NBA title, the NBA Finals MVP and an Olympic gold medal in the same year.
“It is an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the world together,” James said in a press release.
“For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything not only to me, but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians and so many people around the country with big ambitions. Sport has the power to bring us all together and I am proud to be a part of this important moment.”
