LeBron James has dominated the game of basketball for more than two decades. Despite turning 40 years old later this year, the King continues to impress fans with his ability to play basketball at the top level.
Unsurprisingly, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar was named captain for Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Apart from that, James created history after becoming the first USA men's basketball player to be named the country's flag bearer at the Olympics.
While some fans were disappointed with this decision, many have come out in support of the 39-year-old superstar. NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith falls into the latter category, as he showcased his support for the Lakers superstar being named Team USA's flag bearer.
" He deserves that honor," Smith said . " I got Michael Jordan as the greatest basketball player who ever lived. I got LeBron James right behind him at number two."
Curry nominated Bron as Team USA's flag bearer
LeBron and Steph have shared one of the best rivalries in the NBA's history. The two superstars' battles from 2015 to 2018 hold a special place in the hearts of basketball fans around the globe.
Curry and Bron may be rivals in the NBA. Still, they are certainly worthy of being called the two best players on Team USA's basketball roster ahead of the 2024 Olympics. Keeping that in mind, Curry's nomination of James as Team USA's flag bearer was poetic.
"We understand how much of an honor it is to be in that position, and I think LeBron's entire career on and off the court speaks for itself as him being worthy of that honor," Curry said .
Considering James is set to turn 40 years old later this year, this will most likely be the final time that fans witness the King in Team USA's jersey. So, with additional tasks and honors, this year's Olympics run has become even more memorable for James.
James' reaction
The Chosen One has a sensational resume for Team USA, which includes three Olympic medals. But one thing that James' resume lacked was bearing the flag for his country.
James shared his honest reaction to the honor as he will be the first USA men's basketball player to become Team USA's flag bearer.
"It was never a dream, but it's an absolute honor," James said.
Whether James dreamed about the honor or not, he has once again etched his name in history. Moreover, the 20x NBA All-Star is still playing elite basketball despite being surrounded by many younger stars on the team.
James bailed out Team USA multiple times in crunch moments during friendly games ahead of the 2024 Olympics. Fans will hope James can carry his form during the Olympics, win the third gold medal of his international career, and conclude one of the best Team USA resumes.
Related: Nick Wright says LeBron James is the best player on Team USA: "I think his teammates think it"
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