In a significant moment for sports memorabilia collectors and basketball enthusiasts alike, the iconic jersey worn by LeBron James during his "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is set to go up for auction in Hong Kong. The auction, scheduled for September 28, offers a rare chance to own a piece of basketball history, with the jersey expected to fetch between $1 and $2 million.
A Journey of Value
This particular jersey has seen its value skyrocket over the years. Initially sold for $187,500 in 2019, it witnessed a remarkable appreciation, fetching $512,200 in a 2021 auction. The anticipation surrounding this 2023 auction underscores the jersey’s significance, both as a piece of memorabilia and as a symbol of a pivotal moment in LeBron James' illustrious career.
The Photoshoot that Defined an Era
The man behind the lens of this iconic photoshoot was Michael LeBrecht. Reflecting on the experience, 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." The photoshoot captured a young LeBron in a candid moment of aspiration and energy. "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.
A Game-Changing Moment
LeBron wore this jersey during a critical game in his junior season, scoring an impressive 32 points, which only added to its legendary status. Just a year later, in 2003, LeBron declared for the NBA Draft and was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. This jersey is more than just fabric; it represents the dawn of a career that would eventually change the landscape of basketball.
A Storied Career
As LeBron James enters his 22nd NBA season at the age of 39, he continues to be a dominant force on the court. Recently adding a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his long list of accolades, LeBron's journey from a high school phenom to an international sports icon is nothing short of extraordinary.
The Legacy of “The Chosen One”
The significance of the jersey and the photoshoot is not lost on LeBrecht. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal," he remarked. For him, and for many, this jersey is a silent testimony to LeBron's journey, embodying the hopes and dreams of a young athlete on the cusp of greatness. "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," LeBrecht added.
Despite the profound impact and the memorabilia's soaring value, LeBrecht has one regret: "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot," he candidly admitted. This human touch adds another layer to the narrative, reflecting the deep connection between the photographer, the athlete, and the historical moment they captured together.
As the auction date approaches, the excitement builds, not only for potential buyers but also for fans around the world who have followed LeBron's journey. This jersey is more than a collector’s item; it’s a tangible piece of basketball history, a relic from the moment LeBron James was anointed "The Chosen One."