In Photos: LeBron James gets caught in selfie frenzy with Olympic athletes
It's one thing to represent your country in the Olympics but it's even more incredible when you are selected to be the flag carrier, such is the case for LeBron James at the Olympics Opening Ceremony. This year's international multi-sport event marks the fourth appearance by the 39-year-old athlete as he found himself in several selfies with various athletes across different generations.
During his last Olympic outing, the Lakers star helped USA Basketball secure the gold medal against Spain. Throughout the team's run, James put up 13.3 points (60.3% shooting, including 30.0% from 3-point range), 5.6 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game.
Among the athletes LeBron James took a picture with were American professional tennis player Coco Gauff and American track-and-field athlete Tara Davis-Woodhall.
United World Wrestling also shared a snap on Instagram of the four-time NBA Champion alongside American freestyle and folkstyle wrestler Mason Parris.
Hilariously, American tennis player Emma Navarro took the selfie opportunity with the Lakers forward to insert one of his iconic memes in her Instagram stories.
Meanwhile, American pole vaulter Katie Moon called back to James' iconic "Cleveland this is for you!" quote after winning the 2016 NBA Championship over the Golden State Warriors.
It was a momentous occasion for the countries to be part of this year's Olympics Opening Ceremony in Paris, especially for young athletes who had the chance to take a picture alongside one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
LeBron James talked about the honor of being voted as the United States flag carrier in the 2024 Paris Olympics
Upon the announcement, James acknowledged the incredible position he was placed in while also celebrating the journey he started with as a simple kid who grew up in Akron, Ohio, as per NBC Los Angeles' Jonathan Lloyd.
"It's an honor to represent the United States on this global stage," James said, "especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together. 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."
Over the years, James has cemented himself as one of the all-time greats in the game of basketball. Numbers and accolades aside, the 20-time NBA All-Star's incredible longevity is a testament to his dedication and discipline for his profession.
His kind of player simply doesn't grow on trees and on the twilight years of his career, he is still showing the world why he comes from a different breed.