For LeBron James, making history might be an ordinary feat. He holds a plethora of basketball records, all of which have contributed to his illuminating reputation. However, none of these accolades will compare to leading 592 members into the biggest international sports competition in the world. Yes, that’s right. Team USA announced today that the Lakers forward will be the men’s flag bearer during the Paris Olympics starting next week.

James was bestowed with the honor by all the Team USA Olympians. As far as the basketball team goes, his long-time rival and now teammate, Stephen Curry, proved to be influential. Representing the men’s basketball team, Curry eloquently put the case forward for James to wave the flag in Paris.

“We understand how much of an honor it is to be in that position, and I think Bron’s entire career, on and off the court, speak for itself of him being worthy of that honor. He has represented what it means to be excellent, both on and off the court, and his commitment to service and to uplifting the community in all ways that he knows how has been a lifelong passion. And the work speaks for itself,” Curry said in the nomination video for LeBron James.

Through their vast history of battles, LeBron James and Stephen Curry have developed an enormous respect for one another. During the Paris Olympics, the dream combination will become professional teammates for the first time in their careers. While Curry will suit up for his maiden Olympics, James will play in his fourth, tied for most in Team USA men’s history.

No men’s basketball player has ever been the Olympic flag bearer before. LeBron James will only be the third basketball athlete to take that place too. And there’s something poetic about Stephen Curry, the man who pushed the Akron Hammer to his limits, being the one to name him as the flag bearer for the upcoming competition.

LeBron James is excited to team up with Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant

Not ever has LeBron James got to call Stephen Curry his teammate apart from at All-Star games. Now, during his last Olympics, the Akron Hammer finally gets to share the floor with this arch-nemesis for decades. Likewise, he was filled with nothing but gratitude.

“I can’t speak for those two guys, but for me, it’s going to be ecstatic excitement, a humbling wow factor. The last 15, 17, 18 years, myself, Steph, KD, have been the talk of the NBA. We don’t know how many more opportunities we’re going to have to even play the game. So to be able to have this moment at this point in our careers is just super special,” James said of sharing the floor with Durant and Curry.

Durant too will play in his fourth Olympics but has only played with LeBron James in 2012. The duo will reunite after 12 years, both with a common objective. It will be for one last time. However, the Slim Reaper isn’t convinced of James’ last ride claims. The former MVP feels James can play for another four years.

The Akron Hammer has strictly rejected the idea of playing in 2028. But situations and conditions can change. Maybe this isn’t the first and last time for the trio. But even if it is, the hoops community will relish how their combination at Paris, come next week.