LeBron’s Legendary Jersey Heads to Auction
The jersey worn by LeBron James during his iconic "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is set to make waves once again, as it heads to the auction block in Hong Kong later this month. Slated for auction on September 28, this piece of basketball history is expected to fetch between $1 and $2 million.
Back in 2019, the same jersey sold for a staggering $187,500, but the value jumped significantly, reaching $512,200 in a 2021 auction, reflecting the ever-growing legacy of LeBron James. Now, collectors and fans alike eagerly await the outcome of this latest auction, symbolizing LeBron’s lasting impact on the sport.
The Photoshoot That Defined a Star
Michael LeBrecht, the photographer who captured the young phenom during the 2002 photoshoot, recalls the memorable session. "The last time I saw this jersey was probably the time that I shot it in the locker room at St. Vincent-St. Mary," he reminisced. The session was not just another photoshoot but a pivotal moment that significantly contributed to the mythos surrounding LeBron’s early career.
"You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal," LeBrecht added, highlighting the significance of that shoot in paving the way for LeBron's professional future. The simplicity of the setup belied the importance of the event. "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!'"
A Piece of History
The jersey LeBron donned wasn’t just for show; it held immense sentimental value, marking a significant game in his junior season where he scored 32 points, further demonstrating his prowess on the court. His performance and potential during this time were undeniable, leading LeBron to declare for the 2003 NBA Draft the following year.
The draft saw LeBron selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, a franchise-altering choice that heralded the beginning of a transformative career. Now, at 39 and entering his 22nd season in the NBA, LeBron’s influence on the game is as potent as ever. Adding to his long list of accolades, LeBron recently secured a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics, a testament to his enduring excellence and versatility.
An Iconic Relic
Reflecting on the jersey’s journey through various auctions, LeBrecht remarked on its iconic status. "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." Indeed, the jersey serves as a silent witness to LeBron’s meteoric rise and the immense legacy he’s built over the years.
However, LeBrecht also expressed some regret about not keeping the jersey. "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot," he admitted candidly. In hindsight, owning such a piece of memorabilia would have been a priceless memento of a career-defining moment.
The Auction Anticipation
As the auction date approaches, the buzz surrounding this jersey continues to grow. This piece of LeBron’s early career is not just another collectible but a symbol of dedication, talent, and the unyielding drive that has characterized his career.
For fans, collectors, and basketball historians, the upcoming auction represents an opportunity to own a tangible piece of basketball lore. The jersey stands as a testament to a young athlete’s dreams and ambitions, and the narrative of his unstoppable journey to basketball supremacy.
The auction of LeBron James' "The Chosen One" jersey is more than a mere sale; it’s the celebration of a legacy that continues to inspire countless fans and athletes across the globe.