By Reinaldo Oliveros
22 Jul 2024, 09:55 AM EDT
LeBron James will receive the honor of being the flag bearer of the United States for the 2024 Paris Olympics. James will become the first NBA player to be the flag bearer.
James will lead the US delegation after the vote of the 592 athletes who will go to Paris 2024. The name of the female athlete who will accompany him in this task will be revealed on Tuesday.
“It is an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially at a time “It is a responsibility that can unite the entire world. For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything, not just to me, but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, my fellow Olympians and so many people across the country with high aspirations,” said the four-time NBA champion.
“Sports have the power to unite us all and I am proud to be a part of this important moment,” James said after the news broke, according to a statement released by Team USA.
This will be LeBron James’ fourth appearance at the Olympics. The Los Angeles Lakers star won a bronze medal at Athens 2004 and then back-to-back medals at Beijing 2008 and London 2018.
Lebron will be the third name, and the first in the NBA, linked to basketball to receive this honor after previously receiving it from players Dawn Staley (2004) and Sue Bird (2020); the latter being the most recent to have it alongside baseball player Eddy Álvarez.
United States Olympic Committee celebrates LeBron James’ honor
Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the U.S. Olympic Committee, welcomed the selection of LeBron James and the dedication of the captain of the basketball team.
“Being selected by your teammates to carry the flag is a tremendous honor and a testament to the passion LeBron’s support for Team USA and his dedication to his sport. We will watch with great pride as the flag bearers guide our athletes who are about to embark together on an extraordinary journey.”
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