LeBron James in for prestigious Team USA role at Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony

Team USA has announced LeBron James will be one of its flag bearers for the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony on Friday.

James is the first male basketball player to be selected for the prestigious role. The NBA icon, 39, is competing in his fourth Olympics and will also be the main man for Steve Kerr's star-studded 12-man roster.

“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.

“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.”

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James was nominated for the role by his teammate, Steph Curry, who's competing in his first Olympics despite four NBA Championships, two MVPs and guaranteed future Hall of Fame status. James' female flag-bearing partner will be announced on Tuesday.

"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,” said USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland.

“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."

Kerr's Team USA roster is in London playing two Olympic tuneup games at the 02 Arena. The reigning Olympic champions were run close by South Sudan on Saturday night, winning 101-100. A controversial ending, a perceived foul by Anthony Edwards on a South Sudanese went unpunished in the dying seconds.

James grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck, scoring 23 points for his country . Team USA will now play world champions Germany, who beat them at the last World Cup, on Monday night.

James is expected to play a starring role again alongside Curry, and potentially returning injured star, Kevin Durant, who is in desperate need of game time heading into this month's tournament.