“Country That’s So Divided”: LeBron James Hopes to Heal America as Flag Bearer for Paris Olympics

In 2004, when LeBron James was participating in his career-first Olympics, little did he know he would achieve a wonderous honor 2 decades later. Yes, that’s right. The “kid from Akron” was chosen to be the official male flag bearer, representing all Americans in Friday’s opening ceremony for the Paris Olympics.

His fellow U.S. Olympians picked him for the honor of leading a 592-player contingent. With the honor bestowed upon him, King James became the third basketball player to do so. In fact, he’s the first men’s basketball player to carry the US red and blue colors at the opening ceremony.

And who other than his rival-cum-buddy, Stephen Curry, to break the news to him? Just a few hours before their pre-Olympics exhibition game against World Cup champion Germany, Curry broke the news to Bron. Of course, Bron was left elated hearing this news.

James was as proud as he could be to get this opportunity, saying, “It was never a dream, but it is an absolute honor. And to be able to share that moment with you guys, it’s gonna make it even more memorable. You know, I just appreciate it, man. Team USA has given so much to all of us. To me over the last 20 years. And I understand right now and in a country that’s so divided, I hope this moment and that moment will unite us or bring us together.”.

With this honor bestowed upon him, Bron will join Dawn Staley (2004 Athens) and Sue Bird (2021 Tokyo).

The news is obviously special for him, rather an icing on the cake, after his game-saving last dunk over South Sudan in the last exhibition.

It is also special for basketball fans to see someone from the Association bear the star-spangled banner. And that too, the fan favorite, LeBron James. Team USA comprises one of the largest contingents out of all in this year’s Olympics. Looking to bag their fifth consecutive gold, the USAB team seems all geared up.

LeBron James’ Olympic comeback is off to a strong start

The last time King James represented the States in the Olympics was back in 2012. In the last 20 years, James has made three Olympic appearances, starting from Athens in 2004 to London (2012). While the 2004 Olympics were a disaster for the USAB team, the players united to take the international games seriously from then on.

LeBron and co. have assembled to form one of the greatest basketball teams in US history, which many are calling it the “Dream Team 2.0”. Fans believe this to be James’ last Olympic appearance, owing to the fact that he’s 39. Though if it is the truth, playing alongside Steph and KD in his last Olympics would be a way to call it.

On the other hand, it will be a historic moment to see the NBA veteran bear the national flag this week. LeBron has had his share of representing the States in international tournaments and truly deserves a chance to lead the Americans on the big stage. The Opening ceremony will be held along the river Seine on the 26th. Fans can witness the parade on their respective national broadcasts on the same day.