The jersey worn by NBA superstar LeBron James during his famed "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated in 2002 is poised to make headlines once again as it heads to the auction block in Hong Kong this September. The auction, scheduled for September 28, has generated significant anticipation, with estimates suggesting the iconic piece could fetch between $1 and $2 million.
Michael LeBrecht, the photographer behind the unforgettable shoot, reminisced about the jersey's journey through the years. "The last time I saw this jersey was probably the time that I shot it in the locker room at St. Vincent-St. Mary," he recalled. His reflections add a deeper layer of nostalgia to the garment's storied history.
A Jersey Steeped in History
The jersey’s upcoming auction marks another chapter in its continuing ascent in value. In 2019, it sold for $187,500, followed by a substantial increase to $512,200 in 2021. These past auctions underscore its significance not just as sports memorabilia but as a symbol of a pivotal moment in basketball history.
LeBron played one of the most consequential games of his junior season in the jersey, scoring 32 points, an achievement that underscored his burgeoning talent and solidified his status as a future NBA star. The following year, he declared for the 2003 NBA Draft, where he was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. What followed is a career that has been nothing short of extraordinary.
A Photographer’s Recollections
Michael LeBrecht shared vivid memories from the day of the photoshoot, painting a picture of a young LeBron brimming with potential and youthful exuberance. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It’s surreal."
LeBrecht's memories of capturing the dynamic photos that would later become iconic are particularly poignant. "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!'"
Reflecting on the jersey itself, LeBrecht said, "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." His regret over not keeping the jersey is clear in his candid admission, "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot."
A Legacy Continues
Now at the age of 39 and entering his 22nd NBA season, LeBron James remains one of the sport's most formidable figures. His recent achievements, including adding a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to his list of accolades, further cement his legendary status.
As the jersey that captured a turning point in his career prepares to grace the auction stage once more, it’s a poignant reminder of how far LeBron has come. The garment is not just a piece of sportswear; it’s a symbol of aspiration, achievement, and a young man's dream fulfilled.
With the auction around the corner, anticipation builds. Whether it reaches the expected $1 to $2 million mark or surpasses it, one thing is certain: the jersey will continue to be a tangible piece of basketball lore, celebrated by collectors, fans, and historians alike.
