LeBron James has two jobs in addition to being a point scorer on the floor in Paris. The Los Angeles Lakers player will be one of the American flag carriers during the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Olympics on July 26, two decades after he first played basketball for Team USA.
LeBron stated in a statement from USA Basketball, “It’s an incredible honour to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together.” “As an Akron native, this duty means the world to me, my family, my hometown’s children, my colleagues, my fellow Olympians, and countless other aspirational people nationwide. Sports have the ability to unite people, and I’m honoured to be a part of this significant occasion.
With his fourth Summer Games competition under his belt, the 39-year-old will be the first man and third player from the USA Basketball team to assume the job. Basketball player Sue Bird (2020), swimmer Michael Phelps (2016), fencer Mariel Zagunis (2012), and runner Lopez Lomong (2008) are among the other athletes who have received this honour.
On behalf of the USA Basketball Men’s National Team for this season, LeBron—who won bronze in 2004 and gold in 2008 and 2012—was nominated by teammate Stephen Curry.
In a touching video posted on YouTube on July 22, the Golden State Warriors player said, “We understand how much of an honour it is to be in that position and I think Bron’s entire career, on and off the court, speaks for himself as him being worthy of that honour.” “His dedication to serving the community and his lifelong passion of upliftment in all that he does is a testament to what it means to be excellent both on and off the court.”