LeBron James Named Team USA Flagbearer At Paris Olympics

Two days after saving USA Basketball from what could have been a historic loss against South Sudan, Los Angeles Lakers star and two-time Olympic gold medalist LeBron James has been named Team USA’s male flagbearer at the Paris Olympic Opening Ceremony on Friday. A female flag bearer to join James will be announced Tuesday.

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“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 press 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.”

Nominated on behalf of the men’s basketball team by Golden State Warriors’ Steph Curry, James was selected by his fellow Olympians from across the country. He is the third basketball player and first men’s player to carry the U.S. flag at the Olympic Games. Dawn Stanley carried the flag in Athens in 2004 and Sue Bird in Tokyo in 2021.

This will be James’ first time competing at the Olympics since winning his second gold medal at the 2012 London Games.

The U.S. men open group play against Serbia on Sunday in Lille.

Hosted by Mike Tirico, Kelly Clarkson and Peyton Manning, the Opening Ceremony airs live on NBC and Peacock on Friday at noon ET.

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