The Iconic Jersey of LeBron James: A Collector's Dream
The jersey that basketball legend LeBron James donned during his unforgettable Sports Illustrated "The Chosen One" photoshoot in 2002 is once again in the spotlight. This iconic piece of memorabilia is slated to go under the hammer in Hong Kong on September 28, with anticipations running high that it could fetch between $1 and $2 million.
Back in 2002, a young LeBron James was already making waves in the basketball world with his outstanding performances. It was during his junior season at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School that he wore this now-famous jersey, culminating in a standout game where he scored 32 points. A year later, James declared for the 2003 NBA Draft and was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, beginning his journey to becoming one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Michael LeBrecht, the photographer behind the iconic shoot, reflects on that pivotal moment. "The last time I saw this jersey was probably the time that I shot it in the locker room at St. Vincent-St. Mary," LeBrecht recalls. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal."
The journey of this jersey through the auction circuit has been a riveting one. It previously sold for $187,500 in 2019. By 2021, its value had surged to $512,200. Now, with the auction set for later this month, expectations are that it will command an even higher price, potentially breaking the million-dollar mark.
LeBrecht shares vivid memories of the photoshoot, his first encounter with the emerging star. "This was the first time I shot LeBron. Just kind of a simple setup. I had him dunk the ball at least 40 times. Got him praying to make the NBA, and then I just felt like, 'OK, let's get a little bit more animated.' He's posing, I'm like 'just reach out like this,' and then I'm like, 'give me a woo!' And he's like, 'woo!'"
LeBron James, now 39 and entering his 22nd NBA season, has amassed a decorated career, recently adding a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his extensive list of accolades. For fans and collectors alike, this jersey represents not only a significant piece of sports history but also a testament to the early days of a superstar whose impact on the game has been nothing short of transformative.
As LeBrecht poignantly notes, "You come back to something you photographed, usually you say 'what's up, how you doing? It's been a minute.' This doesn't talk back. But it's so iconic." The jersey, a silent witness to the beginning of LeBron's ascent, now stands as a relic of immense value and nostalgia.
Reflecting with a touch of wistfulness, LeBrecht adds, "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot." It's a sentiment that many who have brushed shoulders with sports history may find relatable – the fleeting opportunity to hold on to a piece of legacy often eludes grasp.
The upcoming auction promises to be a significant event, attracting bidders from around the world eager to own a piece of basketball history. For now, as it awaits its next chapter, the jersey remains a timeless symbol of LeBron James' early promise and his enduring greatness.