Each USA Olympics flag bearer since 1908, now starring LeBron James

LeBron James is ready to make historical past on the Paris Olympics by being the primary U.S. males’s basketball participant to be a flag bearer on the video games.

This marks the third time in historical past a basketball participant has been a flag bearer on the video games, with Sue Hen carrying the flag in the course of the opening ceremony of the 2020 video games in Tokyo, whereas Daybreak Staley had the obligation on the 2004 Olympics in Athens.

These video games are particular for LeBron, as they’ll nearly assuredly be his final. A four-time Olympian, he represented america in 2004, 2008, and 2012 — however missed the 2016 and 2020 video games to concentrate on the NBA. Now on the age of 39 there’s an excellent probability he gained’t be taking part in for the nationwide crew in 2028, and the importance of the second isn’t misplaced on LeBron.

“It’s an unbelievable honor to symbolize america on this world stage, particularly in a second that may carry the entire world collectively,” James stated. “For a child from Akron, this accountability means every thing to not solely myself, however to my household, all the youngsters in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians and so many individuals throughout the nation with large aspirations. Sports activities have the ability to carry us all collectively, and I’m proud to be part of this necessary second.”

The Paris video games mark an opportunity for Crew USA to make a serious assertion. A lot of the speak has been round how the world is catching up in basketball, and that america’ dominance has ended after a 4th place end on the 2023 FIBA World Cup, however the NBA’s finest have all come to play this video games to determine the pecking order in world basketball.

Right here’s how LeBron slots in with each U.S. flag bearer prior to now.