The Chosen One Jersey Heads to Auction
Basketball enthusiasts and memorabilia collectors alike will have a unique opportunity this September as LeBron James' iconic jersey from his "The Chosen One" Sports Illustrated photoshoot in 2002 goes up for auction in Hong Kong. Scheduled to be held on September 28, the auction of this historical piece of sports history is expected to fetch a staggering $1 to $2 million.
The Iconic Photoshoot
The jersey has a rich backstory that adds to its significance. It was originally worn by the then-high school junior LeBron James during a pivotal game where he scored 32 points. The jersey was immortalized on the cover of Sports Illustrated, shot by photographer Michael LeBrecht. This cover story catapulted LeBron into national fame, contributing to his moniker as "The Chosen One."
"The last time I saw this jersey was probably the time that I shot it in the locker room at St. Vincent-St. Mary," LeBrecht reminisced. He added, "You look back and you don't realize; it was a real turning point. It's surreal." Indeed, the photoshoot marked a significant moment in LeBron's early career, heralding his journey to becoming one of the greatest basketball players of his generation.
From Locker Room to Auction Block
LeBron's journey from high school prodigy to NBA legend is well-documented. Declaring for the 2003 NBA Draft the year after the photoshoot, LeBron was the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Fast-forward to today, LeBron is entering his 22nd NBA season at the age of 39 and has recently added a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his extensive list of accolades. The jersey, a memento from his formative years, has seen significant increases in its value over the years. Originally sold for $187,500 in 2019, the jersey's price jumped to $512,200 in a 2021 auction.
An Indelible Memory
LeBrecht shared fond memories from the photoshoot, saying, "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 simplicity and youthful exuberance captured in those frames contrast starkly with the gravitas the jersey now holds.
Reflecting on the jersey, LeBrecht remarked, "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 is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of youthful ambition and the dawn of an illustrious career.
A Collective Gaze Back
For fans and collectors, the auction on September 28 offers more than just a chance to own a piece of history; it provides an opportunity to re-live a pivotal moment in sports history. The excitement around the auction is palpable, driven by both the historical and financial allure of the jersey. LeBrecht's candid reflection perhaps sums it up best: "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot."
As the jersey prepares to hit the auction block, it stands as a testament to the extraordinary career of LeBron James, symbolizing the dreams and drive that have defined him since his early days. This auction will undoubtedly draw the attention of the sports world, as one of its most iconic pieces of memorabilia seeks a new home.