Even athletes like LeBron James who have accomplished everything get a little more emotional when it comes to the Olympic Games. When Stephen Curry surprised LeBron in front of the entire USA men’s basketball team with the news that he was going to be Team USA’s flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony, his reaction showed how much the honor meant to him.

Watch LeBron James’ reaction to making Olympics history

James, 39, could hardly process his words when Curry informed him that he would be the first ever USA men’s basketball player to be named a flag bearer at the Olympics. He tapped his heart with pride and couldn’t wipe a rare, toothy smile off his face.

When interviewed later after collecting his thoughts, LeBron said: “I understand how prestigious this moment is. To wave the flag not only for us as the men’s national team, but for all the Olympians, I hold that with the utmost honor.”

“It’s something that for my friends, my family and my community, it will live on forever,” he added with a smile.

LeBron is the leader for Team USA

James is chasing his third Olympic gold medal in 2024, after winning with the “Redeem Team” in 2008 and in London in 2012. He first represented Team USA at the Olympic Games in 2004 in Athens, when the team won bronze. He did not compete in Rio 2016 or Tokyo 2020.

Even on one of the most talented USA men’s basketball teams since the Dream Team of 1992, the Los Angeles Lakers forward stands out from the rest as the leader. He was called upon for the game-winning shot to rescue Team USA from a near disaster in a recent friendly against South Sudan, and now his responsibilities go beyond the basketball court.