In a remarkable moment for sports memorabilia enthusiasts, the jersey LeBron James wore during his iconic "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is slated for auction in Hong Kong this September. Set for September 28, this piece of sports history is anticipated to fetch between $1 million and $2 million, a significant leap from its previous auction prices.
A Jersey with a Rich History
The journey of this jersey is as storied as LeBron James' illustrious career. Initially sold for $187,500 in 2019, its value surged to $512,200 in 2021. Now poised to potentially break the million-dollar mark, the jersey's rising worth mirrors LeBron's ascent in the pantheon of basketball greats.
Michael LeBrecht, the photographer who captured the legendary image, recalls the significance of that photoshoot. "The last time I saw this jersey was probably the time that I shot it in the locker room at St. Vincent-St. Mary," said LeBrecht, reflecting on a moment that has since become a pivotal piece of sports nostalgia. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal."
The Importance of "The Chosen One" Shoot
LeBrecht's recollections offer a unique glimpse into that memorable day. "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!'"
This session not only produced an iconic image but also captured the raw energy and ambition of a young athlete on the cusp of greatness. LeBron, then a high school junior, was riding high after a pivotal game where he scored 32 points. The following year, he declared for the 2003 NBA Draft, where he was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The rest is history.
LeBrecht's reflection on the jersey brings a poignant note to the story. "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 stands as a silent testament to an era that shaped the career of one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
LeBron's Legacy and the Jersey's Value
As LeBron James, now 39, embarks on his 22nd NBA season, his legacy continues to grow. Recently adding a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his extensive list of achievements, LeBron's influence both on and off the court remains unparalleled.
The jersey's anticipated auction price underscores its significance in the sports memorabilia market. It is more than just fabric and thread; it embodies a moment of potential, a prelude to an extraordinary career. LeBrecht's sentiment captures this perfectly: "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot."
As collectors and fans await the auction, the jersey once again takes center stage, evoking memories of a young LeBron James, poised to enter the NBA and change the game forever. This piece of memorabilia serves as a bridge to the past, connecting us to the origins of a sports legend whose influence continues to inspire future generations. The auction on September 28 is not just a sale; it's a celebration of an indelible moment in sports history.