The jersey worn by LeBron James during his iconic "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is set to hit the auction block in Hong Kong this September. Featuring in a pivotal moment of LeBron's early career, this piece of memorabilia is expected to draw significant attention from collectors and sports enthusiasts alike.
A Significant Auction
The auction is scheduled for September 28, and expectations are high for the jersey, with estimates ranging between $1 and $2 million. This is a substantial increase from previous auctions. The jersey was sold for $187,500 in 2019 and saw a significant jump to $512,200 in a 2021 auction. The anticipated selling price this time around reflects its escalating value as a piece of sports history.
A Pivotal Moment
This jersey is more than just a piece of fabric; it represents a watershed moment in LeBron James' career. The photoshoot by Michael LeBrecht took place during LeBron's junior season at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. LeBron wore this jersey in a game where he scored 32 points, cementing his reputation as a rising star in the basketball world.
Reflecting on the moment, Michael LeBrecht recalled, "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 added, "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal."
An Iconic Photoshoot
The photoshoot itself was a significant milestone for both LeBron and LeBrecht. "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 shared.
This shoot captured the raw potential and personality of a young LeBron James, who would soon become a household name. As LeBrecht noted, the jersey itself has become an emblematic part of that moment in time. "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 said.
LeBron's Historic Career
The jersey not only symbolizes the start of LeBron's professional journey but also his subsequent achievements. LeBron declared for the 2003 NBA Draft the following year and was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Now, at the age of 39, LeBron is entering his 22nd NBA season, a testament to his longevity and enduring talent in the sport.
Adding to his illustrious career, LeBron recently secured a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, further solidifying his legacy as one of basketball's all-time greats.
Reflection and Regret
Despite the excitement surrounding the auction, there's a tinge of regret for LeBrecht. "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot," he admitted, reflecting on the historical significance the jersey has garnered over the years.
As the auction date approaches, the jersey of "The Chosen One" promises to be a focal point of sports memorabilia, encapsulating the early promise and subsequent greatness of LeBron James. For collectors and fans, it represents not only a piece of history but a memento of a turning point in basketball lore.