PARIS, France — How cool!
Akron native and basketball superstar LeBron James has been chosen to carry the flag for Team USA at the Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony.
“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.”
James, who is competing in his fourth Olympics, was chosen as the USA flag bearer after being voted on by fellow Team USA Olympic athletes competing in Pairs.
"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."
The 39-year-old James got word of the honor Monday in London, a few hours before the U.S. men’s team was scheduled to play its final pre-Olympics exhibition game against World Cup champion Germany.
Fellow U.S. star and first-time Olympian Stephen Curry, on behalf of the U.S. men's team, nominated James for the flagbearer role.
“We understand how much of an honor it is to be in that position and I think Bron’s entire career, on and off the court, speaks for itself as him being worthy of that honor,” Curry said in the nomination video.
In 2008 and 2012, James guided Team USA to gold in men's basketball. In addition, he competed in 2004 and won bronze as a 19-year-old.
James becomes the first man and third member of USA Basketball to earn the honor of being the Team USA flag bearer. He joins five-time Olympic champion Sue Bird (2020) and five-time Olympic gold medalist player and coach Dawn Staley (2004) as the only basketball players to have this designation.
The Opening Ceremony for the Paris Olympics is set for Friday, July 26 -- and NBC is your home for all the action with full coverage throughout the games.
3News' Matt Rascon will be in Paris to bring exclusive coverage of the Summer Olympics to WKYC.