The jersey worn by LeBron James for his iconic "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is poised to make headlines again as it hits the auction block in Hong Kong this September. Set for September 28, the auction is expected to see bids ranging between $1 million and $2 million, a staggering increase from its previous sales.
Back in 2019, the jersey sold for $187,500. It saw a significant jump in value during a 2021 auction, fetching $512,200. Now, with LeBron’s storied career adding more accolades, expectations for the jersey's value have soared. This very jersey was worn by a young LeBron James during a pivotal game in his junior season, where he scored an impressive 32 points, further cementing his future in professional basketball.
A Pivotal Moment Captured
Michael LeBrecht, the photographer behind that legendary shoot, recalls the experience vividly. "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. For LeBrecht, the photo session was more than just another assignment; it was a moment that encapsulated LeBron's imminent stardom. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal," he added.
LeBrecht’s memories from the shoot reveal the unique dynamic of working with a high school basketball prodigy on the brink of national fame. "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!'"
Legacy of "The Chosen One"
This iconic jersey is not only a piece of sports memorabilia but also a symbol of LeBron James’ journey from high school phenom to NBA legend. LeBron declared for the 2003 NBA Draft a year after the photoshoot and was selected No.1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Fast forward to today, LeBron is 39 and entering his 22nd NBA season, a testament to his longevity and enduring talent. Not surprisingly, his accolades have only continued to grow, with his most recent addition being a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics.
LeBrecht reflects on the sustained value and significance of the jersey. "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." The significance of the jersey and the memories it holds is something LeBrecht cherishes deeply, albeit with a hint of regret. "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot," he admits candidly.
Anticipation Builds for Auction Day
The auction in Hong Kong promises to be a significant event for collectors and fans alike. The projected sale price reflects not just the value of the memorabilia but the emotional and historical weight it carries. As LeBron James continues to add chapters to his illustrious career, memorabilia connected to his early years only grows in allure and value.
As the sports world eagerly watches the auction unfold, this jersey stands as a testament to a defining moment in LeBron James' career trajectory. From St. Vincent-St. Mary to NBA royalty, "The Chosen One" jersey is more than just fabric and thread—it’s a piece of history. And for a player whose journey has been nothing short of spectacular, it’s fitting that the relics of his past continue to command such extraordinary interest and reverence.