In an electrifying nod to the early days of an NBA legend, the jersey worn by LeBron James during his iconic "The Chosen One" photoshoot is set to hit the auction block this September in Hong Kong. This historic jersey, worn during a pivotal moment in LeBron's high school career at St. Vincent-St. Mary, is expected to command between $1 million and $2 million at the auction scheduled for September 28.
The high school jersey that once bore witness to the rise of basketball royalty has seen a dramatic increase in value over the years. Initially selling for $187,500 in 2019, its worth soared to an impressive $512,200 in a 2021 auction, attesting to the enduring legacy and ever-growing fandom of its original wearer, LeBron James.
A Piece of History
Photographed by Michael LeBrecht for Sports Illustrated in 2002, the jersey has become a symbol of LeBron's early promise and eventual fulfillment of becoming one of the greatest basketball players in history. LeBrecht recalls the photoshoot with vivid detail, underscoring its significance. "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 the indelible moment.
LeBron, then a high school junior, wore the jersey during a crucial game where he poured in 32 points, further cementing his reputation as a prodigious talent destined for the NBA. Just a year later, he declared for the 2003 NBA Draft and was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking the beginning of a storied career.
The Photographer's Perspective
LeBrecht's recounting of that day paints a picture of a momentous photoshoot that captured a young LeBron James on the brink of basketball superstardom. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal," he remarked. The simplicity of the setup belied the profound impact the images would have. "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 photoshoot not only captured LeBron's raw talent and physical prowess but also his charismatic personality and unyielding drive to succeed. LeBrecht poignantly notes the passage of time and the silent eloquence of the jersey itself. "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 Enduring Legacy
Now at the age of 39 and entering his 22nd NBA season, LeBron James continues to add to his remarkable list of achievements, recently earning a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. His journey from a high school standout to a global basketball icon is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and impact on the sport.
LeBrecht candidly sums up the missed opportunity of retaining a tangible piece of that historic day. "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot," he reflects, echoing the sentiment of many who look back with nostalgia and a sense of awe at the phenomenal rise of LeBron James.
The upcoming auction of this iconic jersey serves as a potent reminder of the origins of a basketball legend and the moments that defined his early career. As the jersey changes hands once more, it not only represents a valuable collector's item but also a cherished memento of LeBron James' extraordinary journey from "The Chosen One" to one of the greatest to ever play the game.