Hilary Knight and Evan Bates tapped to carry the American flag at the Closing Ceremony, a salute to leadership across U.S. ice sports
A celebrated leader from women’s hockey and a graceful force in ice dance will shoulder the Stars and Stripes as Team USA concludes its time at the Games: veteran forward Hilary Knight and elite ice dancer Evan Bates. Their appointment as joint flag bearers recognizes athletic excellence, cross-discipline respect, and the growing emphasis on inclusive representation on the Olympic stage.
Profiles in leadership: Knight’s power, Bates’ artistry
Hilary Knight — veteran competitor and progressive voice
Hilary Knight arrives at the role as one of U.S. hockey’s most prominent figures. A long-time national-team mainstay and a four-time Olympian, Knight has been central to the growth and visibility of women’s hockey in America. Beyond on-ice production and leadership, she has helped elevate conversations about equity and opportunity in the sport, becoming an off-ice advocate as well as an on-ice captain. Her experience and reputation for rallying teammates make her an emblematic choice to lead Team USA in the Closing Ceremony.
Evan Bates — precision, partnership and performance
Evan Bates brings to the honor decades of elite-level ice dance experience, combining technical excellence with evocative performance. A multiple U.S. national medalist and World Championship podium contender, Bates has developed a reputation for meticulous preparation and creative expression alongside his partner. His selection spotlights the artistry of figure skating disciplines and the teamwork required to reach the top tiers of international competition.
Why a pair of flag bearers matters now
The decision to name two flag bearers reinforces several trends reshaping Olympic ceremonies:
– Gender-equal and dual representation: Since the IOC encouraged countries to nominate multiple flag bearers in recent Games, nations have increasingly chosen pairs to reflect gender balance and shared leadership.
– Cross-sport visibility: Pairing athletes from different disciplines — in this case, team hockey and ice dance — broadens exposure for sports that do not always occupy center stage in mainstream coverage.
– Symbolic unity: A joint carrying of the flag underscores that national achievement at the Games is the result of many individuals and teams working toward a common purpose.
How this choice resonates beyond the podium
Selecting Knight and Bates simultaneously does more than honor two athletes; it sends a message about what the U.S. delegation values right now. It elevates voices from winter-sport communities, highlights both physical strength and creative athleticism, and models collaborative recognition rather than spotlighting a single star. For young athletes watching around the country, seeing leaders from different skating disciplines share this moment can reinforce the idea that leadership takes many forms.
This moment also reflects a broader narrative in Olympic ceremonies: organizers increasingly use finales to tell richer stories about athlete diversity, personal overcoming, and the wide spectrum of sporting cultures. Expect future closing ceremonies to keep embracing multi-athlete representation, athletes selected for impact as much as medal counts, and moments designed to connect with a wider public.
What to watch during the Closing Ceremony
– The procession: Look for the pair’s entrance and how commentators frame their careers and contributions.
– Cross-discipline recognition: Media focus may bring renewed attention to women’s hockey programs and ice dance training pipelines.
– Legacy and next steps: Watch how sports federations and broadcasters amplify the selection in follow-up stories, community events, and development initiatives.
Final note
As Team USA prepares to wrap up its Olympic chapter, Hilary Knight and Evan Bates will lead the delegation with a balance of force and finesse. Their joint role as flag bearers honors personal achievement while celebrating the collaborative spirit behind Team USA’s performances. NBC Los Angeles will continue to provide updates and coverage as the nation closes out the Games and looks forward to the next Olympic cycle.
