An Iconic Piece of LeBron James' History Heads to Auction
An Iconic Piece of LeBron James' History Heads to Auction
In a moment eagerly anticipated by collectors and basketball enthusiasts alike, the jersey worn by LeBron James during his iconic "The Chosen One" photoshoot with Sports Illustrated in 2002 is about to hit the auction block. Scheduled for September 28 in Hong Kong, this auction promises to be a significant event, with the jersey expected to fetch between $1 and $2 million.
The historical significance of this jersey cannot be overstated. It was donned by a then-high school junior LeBron James during a pivotal game in which he scored 32 points, an early indication of the greatness that was yet to come. Just a year later, LeBron declared for the 2003 NBA Draft and was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking the beginning of an illustrious career.
A Legendary Photoshoot
The photographer behind the famous "The Chosen One" shoot, Michael LeBrecht, reflects on that seminal moment with a mix of nostalgia and awe. "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 recalls. LeBrecht captured LeBron in a variety of poses, some of which have become iconic. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal," he admits.
LeBrecht's direction during the shoot was instrumental in capturing the raw talent and charisma of a young LeBron. "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!'" These moments not only defined the photoshoot but also foreshadowed the exuberant personality LeBron would be known for.
A Rising Value
The journey of this jersey through various auctions is a testament to its escalating significance. It initially sold for $187,500 in 2019, before being auctioned again in 2021 for $512,200. The current estimate of $1 to $2 million reflects not only the increased valuation of sports memorabilia but also the growing recognition of LeBron's impact on the sport.
As LeBron himself continues to break records and defy expectations, recently adding a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his accolades, the items associated with his early career accrue even more historical value. At 39, and about to enter his 22nd NBA season, LeBron's legacy is far from being fully written, making memorabilia from his formative years even more prized.
LeBrecht’s Reflections
The jersey not only represents a key moment in LeBron's career but also holds a special place in Michael LeBrecht's professional journey. His reflections offer a window into the emotional significance behind the artifact. "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 muses. LeBrecht's blend of humor and regret is evident when he adds, "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot."
As the auction date approaches, it’s clear that this jersey is more than just a piece of fabric; it’s a piece of history. A symbol of a young athlete on the brink of superstardom, it immortalizes the very moment when LeBron James began his transformation from a high school phenom to a global icon. The bidding in Hong Kong will undoubtedly be fierce, each bid an acknowledgment of the legend that LeBron James has become and the legacy he continues to build.
