LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, has been named Team USA’s male flag bearer for the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics on July 26. The 39-year-old basketball star will be participating in his fourth Olympics.
Leading the way for Team USA. 🇺🇸
Two-time Olympic gold medalist @KingJames has been selected as our men’s flag bearer for the #ParisOlympics Opening Ceremony. pic.twitter.com/NN4NLWwwfc
— Team USA (@TeamUSA) July 22, 2024
In a statement, James expressed his deep honor at being chosen to represent the United States:
“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. 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.”
LeBron James becomes the first men’s basketball player to carry the flag for Team USA at an Olympic opening ceremony 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/6nAMyGrN3E
— ESPN (@espn) July 22, 2024
The female counterpart who will join James in carrying the flag on a barge down the river Seine, in front of 300,000 spectators, will be announced on Tuesday. Both flag bearers were chosen by a vote of fellow Team USA athletes.