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[Saba Sports News] Few honors are greater for an athlete than being chosen as their country’s flag bearer at the Olympics, symbolizing national pride and values. Sixteen NBA players have received this prestigious honor over the years. Here’s a look at these distinguished athletes.
Andrew Gaze – Australia, 2000 Olympics Andrew Gaze, despite playing just two NBA seasons (1993-94 and 1998-99), is considered Australia’s greatest basketball player. A two-time NBL champion and seven-time MVP, Gaze was the flag bearer at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
Yao Ming – China, 2004 and 2008 Olympics Yao Ming, a well-known NBA figure, was China’s flag bearer in both the 2004 and 2008 Olympics, the latter hosted by China.
Carlos Arroyo – Puerto Rico, 2004 Olympics Carlos Arroyo, who played nine NBA seasons, shone brightest representing Puerto Rico. He was the flag bearer in 2004 and led a memorable victory over Team USA.
Manu Ginobili – Argentina, 2008 Olympics Manu Ginobili, who helped Argentina win gold in 2004, was fittingly chosen as the flag bearer in 2008.