The jersey worn by LeBron James during his legendary "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is about to hit the auction block once more. Slated for auction in Hong Kong on September 28, this iconic piece of sports memorabilia is expected to fetch between $1 and $2 million, reflecting its historic significance and the growing fascination with LeBron's early career.
LeBron donned the jersey during a pivotal game in his junior season at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where he dazzled audiences with a 32-point performance. This game was part of the buildup to what would become a storied and illustrious career in the NBA. Shortly after, LeBron declared for the 2003 NBA Draft, where he was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking the start of a basketball journey that few could have anticipated would reach the heights it has today.
The Original Photoshoot
The photographer behind the famous "The Chosen One" cover, Michael LeBrecht, recalled his time working with a young LeBron James. "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 noted with a hint of nostalgia. He captured a series of images that would contribute to LeBron's burgeoning legend. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal."
LeBrecht's task was a blend of capturing raw athleticism and the innocence of a young prodigy on the cusp of greatness. "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 reminisced.
Value Over Time
The market value of the jersey has seen a significant rise over the years. It previously sold for $187,500 in 2019 before soaring to $512,200 in a 2021 auction. This appreciation in value mirrors LeBron's own career trajectory, as he has continued to build his legacy with each passing season. Now at the age of 39 and entering his 22nd NBA season, LeBron recently added a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his extensive list of accolades, further cementing his status as one of basketball's all-time greats.
The emotional connection to the jersey is palpable for LeBrecht, who reflected, "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." It's a sentiment that resonates with many fans who have followed LeBron's journey from a high school prodigy to a global sports icon.
A Piece of History
This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it's a relic from a defining moment in sports history. "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot," LeBrecht humorously admitted, acknowledging the jersey's monumental significance. As it heads back to the auction block, collectors and fans alike are poised to witness a fervent bidding war, underscoring the cultural and historical weight this piece of memorabilia carries.
The auction on September 28 will mark another chapter in the storied life of this jersey, serving as a tangible link to the past for those lucky enough to acquire it. For LeBron and LeBrecht, it’s a reminder of the early days when a young basketball player took his first steps toward becoming one of the most influential athletes in the world.