LeBron James will be the flag-bearer for Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics’ opening ceremony in Paris on Friday.

The NBA superstar’s fellow Olympians selected the two-time gold medalist to carry the Stars and Stripes.

James, 39, is the first men’s basketball player to receive the honor. Women’s hoops stars Sue Bird (2020) and Dawn Staley (2004) previously carried the flag.

“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 in a statement from London, where Team USA will play its final pre-Olympic exhibition game Monday against Germany.

“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 is competing in his fourth Summer Games after winning gold in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012 and a bronze in Athens in 2004.

Fellow Team USA member Stephen Curry nominated the NBA’s all-time leading scorer for the honor.

“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,” U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement. “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.”

Team USA will announce a woman flag-bearer on Tuesday.

LeBron James has carved out a legendary career as one of basketball’s most dominant and influential figures. From his early days as a highly touted high school prodigy in Akron, Ohio, to becoming a four-time NBA champion and a global icon, James has consistently redefined the game both on and off the court.

Drafted as the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, James immediately made an impact, earning Rookie of the Year honors and quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the league. His tenure with the Cavaliers was marked by numerous individual accolades, including multiple MVP awards, and he led the team to their first NBA Finals appearance in 2007.

In 2010, James made headlines with his decision to join the Miami Heat, forming a formidable trio alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The move resulted in two NBA championships for the Heat in 2012 and 2013, solidifying James’ status as one of the game’s premier players.

Returning to Cleveland in 2014, James orchestrated one of the greatest comebacks in NBA history, leading the Cavaliers to their first NBA title in 2016 and earning Finals MVP honors. His leadership and ability to elevate his game in crucial moments cemented his legacy as a generational talent.

In 2018, James signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he continued to excel and add to his impressive list of accomplishments. He guided the Lakers to their 17th NBA championship in 2020, earning his fourth Finals MVP award in the process.

Off the court, James has been a vocal advocate for social justice, philanthropy, and education through initiatives like the LeBron James Family Foundation. His impact extends beyond basketball, influencing athletes globally to use their platform for positive change.

As LeBron James continues to rewrite the record books and inspire future generations, his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time remains firmly secured.