LeBron James' Immediate Reaction After Historic Olympics Honor

The Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony will take place on Friday, July 26. Representatives from each country will walk out with their nation's flag in a prestigious honor. For the United States, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has been chosen as the male flagbearer as he becomes the first men's basketball player to receive the honor.

LeBron James found out the decision from the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee on Monday prior to Team USA's final exhibition contest, and he released a statement shortly after (h/t Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press).

“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.

The future NBA Hall of Famer becomes the third basketball player to receive the honor. Dawn Staley earned it in 2004 and Sue Bird in 2021. He went on to add that it is an "utmost honor."

Golden State Warriors star and James' Team USA teammate, Stephen Curry, nominated him for the honor:

“He has represented what it means to be excellent both on and off the court in his commitment to service and to uplifting the community in all ways that he knows how has been a lifelong passion,” Curry said. “And the work speaks for itself.”

It's a massive honor for James, who will make history on Friday during the Opening Ceremony. James continued to emphasize how much of an honor it is for him to be named the flagbearer for the United States.

“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," James said. "Sports have the power to bring us all together, and I’m proud to be a part of this important moment.”

The women's flagbearer will be announced on Tuesday for the United States.

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