In an auction set to dazzle sports memorabilia enthusiasts and LeBron James fans alike, a piece of basketball history is primed to make its mark in Hong Kong this September. The jersey worn by LeBron James during his iconic "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is expected to fetch between $1 and $2 million when it hits the auction block on September 28.
This jersey, which has already traversed an extraordinary journey, has seen its value skyrocket over the years. Initially sold for $187,500 in 2019, it was later auctioned for a remarkable $512,200 in 2021. These staggering figures are testament not only to LeBron's legendary status in the sports world but also to the sheer historical significance of the jersey itself.
A Pivotal Moment in LeBron’s Career
Michael LeBrecht, the photographer behind that unforgettable shoot, recalls the moment with a sense of nostalgia. "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. For LeBron, the jersey represents a pivotal chapter in his basketball journey. Worn during a critical game in his junior season, James scored an impressive 32 points, further cementing his prospects as a future NBA superstar.
LeBron declared for the 2003 NBA Draft the following year and was promptly selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. It's an achievement that has become a cornerstone of his illustrious career, which now spans 22 seasons.
The Man Behind the Lens
Reflecting on the significance of that shoot, LeBrecht commented, "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal." The now-famous photograph wasn't just a stroke of luck but the result of thoughtful preparation and an innovative setup. "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!'" LeBrecht recounted.
LeBrecht's unique perspective offers a fascinating glimpse into a moment that has since become a part of basketball lore. "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," he noted, highlighting the timeless nature of the image.
A Legacy Solidified
Today, at 39, LeBron James continues to defy age and expectations as he embarks on his 22nd NBA season. His legacy has only grown richer, recently adorned with yet another gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics. These accomplishments make the upcoming auction of the 2002 jersey not just an event but a celebration of his enduring impact on the sport.
As the auction date approaches, collectors and fans alike will be watching with bated breath, eager to see just how high the bidding will go. "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot," LeBrecht quipped, a light-hearted reminder of the jersey's journey from a high school locker room to auction houses fetching millions.
This imminent auction is more than just a sale; it's a testament to LeBron James' monumental influence on basketball history. As September 28 draws near, the sports world will once again turn its eyes towards The King, celebrating a career that began with a teenager’s dream and evolved into a legacy adorned with accolades, record-breaking moments, and, of course, an unforgettable jersey.