The USA will be represented by one of its biggest stars on the grand stage set up in Paris. While the US contingent boasts a plethora of emphatic stars and athletes across various sports, including the enigmatic Simone Biles and swimming phenoms like Katie Ledecky and Caeleb Dressel, one figure seems to tower over them all.

Members of Team USA have come together to name the LA Lakers celebrity and 4-time NBA champion LeBron James as the flagbearer for the squad at the Olympics opening ceremony. However, while LeBron is undoubtedly a brilliant representation of the American camp at this year’s biggest sporting event, his newly announced role doesn’t seem to be floating the boat for everyone.

In a post from July 22 by Runners World editor Theo Kahler, a controversial take on James’ responsibility at the Opening Ceremony has been shared. Kahler re-posted the original by NBC Olympics & Paralympics to take a dig at the collective decision taken by the Team USA members. “Possibly hot take: the flag bearer should be from a sport that only gets attention during the Olympics,” sneered Theor’s post and many seem to agree with his views.

Only a few days ago, US fans were enraged at former Boston Celtics star Paul Pierce’s comment saying James could have made the 2012 Olympics as a track athlete. Now, as LeBron’s latest feat comes to the fore, they once can’t help but share a chuckle about the NBA icon has outbid several other global stars to clinch the prestigious role.

Fans disappointed as Leron is chosen over the likes of Simone Biles

One fan seems more indifferent after learning the piece of information than others. “Now we care who the flag bearer is because it’s LeBron?” commented Joe, claiming that people are only talking about it because it’s one of the most renowned sports figures in the country. The fan went on to note that most people couldn’t name the last five flagbearers if their lives depended on it, and how it goes on to show the issue is a matter of discussion just because of the NBA MVP.

Bryan went a step further to claim that the athlete in the team with the most medals should have been given the honor, to help the USA look like the intimidating team that it is. Drawing attention to how Simone Biles has more medals to boast than entire countries, the fan commented, “Simone Biles has more medals than most countries, Standard Bearer!”

However, radical thoughts are pervasive. So much so, that one fan opined that LeBron shouldn’t even be at the French capital for a tournament that’s considered the most important event in the sporting world. “And for ALL sports at the Olympics, the Olympics should be the pinnacle. Football, Basketball and Tennis do not belong,” reads the comment of one fan who evidently holds some extreme views.

And yet, the fact that it’s LeBron James in question, is changing the whole dimension of the issue. “It’s LeBron James. The first US men’s basketball flag bearer. He was voted on by the other US Olympians. And he’s not the only flag bearer. And again, it’s LeBron James,” reminds Kevin about the extensive popularity that the basketball icon enjoys in the country.

“maybe just someone who doesn’t already have so much spot light,” proposed another fan, who seems to think the relatively lesser-known athletes could have been the chance to lead the nation for a change.

Do you agree with Theo’s hot take? Or do you think LeBron’s trans-generational fame is the right choice for the US stars to rally behind? Share your views on the debate with us!