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LeBron James named U.S. flag bearer for Olympics opening ceremony
By Alex Butler,
2024-07-22
July 22 (UPI) -- Basketball icon LeBron James will be the men's flag bearer for Team USA at the opening ceremony for the 2024 Summer Games on Friday in Paris, the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee announced Monday.
Los Angeles Lakers star Lebron James (C) will hold an American flag during the procession of natiions during the ceremony for the 2024 Summer Games on Friday in Paris. File Photo by Aaron Josefczyk/UPI
The opening ceremony will be held at 7:30 p.m. local time on the Seine River. Coverage will air at 1:30 p.m. EDT on NBC. Team USA's female flag bearer will be announced Tuesday.
"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 in a news release.
"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."
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (L) will appear on the Olympics for the fourth time at the 2024 Summer Games. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI
Fit to lead
NBA star LeBron James teamed up with former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski (R) to win gold at the 2012 Summer Games in London. File Photo by Mike Theiler/UPI
U.S. flag bearers are picked through a vote from fellow American Olympics in Paris. James is the first male basketball player to receive the honor from Team USA.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James and Team USA will face Serbia in their Olympics opener Sunday in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, France. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry , James' Olympic teammate, nominated him on behalf of the men's national team.
"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," USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James will attempt to win his third Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI
"We will watch with great pride as the flag bearers lead our athletes who are about to embark on a remarkable journey together."
James, 39, is to appear in the Olympics for the fourth time. He helped Team USA win gold in 2008 and 2012. The Americans placed third in 2004.
James and Team USA will start group-stage play against Serbia at 11:15 a.m. Sunday at Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Villeneuve-d'Ascq.
"It's special in the fact that you get an opportunity to represent your country in another fashion," James said in a video posted by USA Basketball.
"I understand how prestigious this moment is. For someone to be the flag bearer and wave the flag, not only for us as the men's national team, but for all the Olympics, I hold that with the utmost honor.
"It's definitely something that, [for] my family, my community and my friends, it's something that will live on forever. I'm super appreciative and super humbled by it."
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