This year, Team USA has assembled one of the greatest basketball teams of the modern era, featuring stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. However, as iconic as this year’s squad is, the flag bearer of the contingent is equally legendary and memorable. Olympians chose LeBron James to lead Team USA in the opening ceremony, alongside the young tennis star, Coco Gauff.

But how were they chosen to bear the national flag? The participating Olympians vote for a male and a female flag bearer for the opening ceremony. LeBron James, a veteran among the 591 athletes representing the United States, has been a part of the NBA for over 21 years. For a basketball player who has never led the contingent, James is the fitting candidate.

On the other hand, Coco Gauff, the 20-year-old tennis player, was recognized for her impressive accolades by the entire contingent. Not only was she ranked number one in doubles two years ago, but she currently stands second in the singles category. Gauff faced her idol, Venus Williams when she was just 15. To everyone’s surprise, Gauff defeated Williams to qualify for the fourth round of the 2019 Wimbledon championship.

It will be quite a sight to see the two lead Team USA in Paris tomorrow, highlighting their significant height difference. LeBron James, standing at 6-foot-9, alongside Coco Gauff, who is 5-foot-10, will reveal quite the contrast. Gauff seems to be worried about the same after finding out that the flag bearers hold the national flag together. “I am a little bit concerned about the height difference. I thought it was two flags but I saw pictures and they’re holding it together”, said Gauff. The difference between their heights almost comes out to be about one foot. Nevertheless, it will be an unforgettable moment for the two

This ‘difference’ also underscores the stature of the two athletes. LeBron James, a four-time NBA champ, one of the greatest players ever, and Coco Gauff, a young athlete on track for a stellar tennis career. This will be her first Olympic appearance, though it would have been her second if not for the unfortunate events three years ago.

Coco Gauff was all set to participate in Tokyo Olympics

Back in 2021, Gauff became the youngest player to win both a singles and a doubles title at the Emilia-Romagna Open. All her accolades up to that point earned the 17-year-old a spot on Team USA. She could have been the second youngest tennis player to ever participate in the Olympics, but tested positive for COVID-19 and had to withdraw. It was an unfortunate situation, but Gauff knew she belonged on the big stage.

Now, she is at her best version so far and more than ready to make a run for Olympic gold. It will be interesting to see Gauff compete in Paris, with her fans expecting nothing but gold. Fans are expecting her to clash against Iga Swiatek if Coco manages to qualify for the Finals. Of course, this is the first of many Olympic appearances she’ll make in the future. On the contrary, this might be James’ last Olympic appearance. Even so, he remains part of one of the greatest Team USA squads.

This will be James’ fourth Olympic appearance, and he looks forward to his third gold medal. James and company will play Serbia on Sunday in their first group-stage game. What are your thoughts on Gauff and James leading the contingent in the opening ceremony? Let us know in the comments.

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