In a development that has sent ripples through the sports memorabilia world, the iconic jersey worn by LeBron James during his "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is set to go under the hammer in Hong Kong this September. Scheduled for auction on September 28, the jersey is expected to fetch between $1 and $2 million, marking a significant jump from its previous sale prices.
The History Behind the Jersey
This particular jersey holds a special place in the annals of basketball history. It was worn by a young LeBron James during a pivotal game in his junior season at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where he scored an impressive 32 points. The following year, LeBron declared for the 2003 NBA Draft and was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, setting the stage for a career that would redefine the sport.
During that monumental 2002 photoshoot, captured by photographer Michael LeBrecht, LeBron was on the cusp of greatness. Reflecting on that day, LeBrecht shared, "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."
The Journey of the Jersey
The jersey has had a journey of its own over the years. It was first sold in 2019 for $187,500. Just two years later, in 2021, it saw a dramatic increase in value, fetching $512,200 at auction. Now, with the estimated auction price set between $1 and $2 million, the jersey's value appears to be skyrocketing.
For LeBrecht, who had the unique opportunity to photograph LeBron during such a formative moment, the jersey carries immense sentimental value. He reminisced, "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!'"
The iconic status of the jersey is undeniable. LeBrecht mused, "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."
LeBron's Ever-Growing Legacy
As LeBron James enters his 22nd NBA season at the age of 39, his legacy continues to grow. His recent addition of a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his collection is a testament to his enduring prowess and commitment to the game. The story of this jersey, much like LeBron’s career, is one of perseverance, excellence, and an ever-evolving narrative that captivates fans and collectors alike.
Reflecting on the jersey's journey and his own experience, LeBrecht shared a sentiment many can relate to: "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot." A poignant reminder of the moments that slip through our fingers, only to become legendary in hindsight.
The auction on September 28 in Hong Kong will undoubtedly be a significant event for collectors and fans of LeBron James, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of sports history that captured a future legend at the dawn of his extraordinary career.