In a nostalgic nod to one of the most iconic moments in NBA history, the jersey worn by LeBron James during his 2002 "The Chosen One" photoshoot for Sports Illustrated is set to be auctioned in Hong Kong this September. The piece of memorabilia from James' early career, already steeped in history, is expected to fetch between $1 and $2 million when it goes under the hammer on September 28.
A Historic Garment
LeBron James, who declared for the 2003 NBA Draft and was selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, wore this jersey during a crucial game in his junior season at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where he scored an impressive 32 points. This jersey represents a pivotal period in James' life, capturing the moment before he ascended to NBA greatness.
Michael LeBrecht, the photographer behind the legendary shoot, has vivid memories of that day. "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 recalls. "You look back and you don't realize, it was a real turning point. It's surreal."
The Journey of the Jersey
The jersey's journey through auctions reveals its increasing value and symbolic stature. Initially sold for $187,500 in 2019, it saw a dramatic jump to $512,200 in a 2021 auction. Now, enthusiasts and collectors alike are eagerly anticipating its upcoming sale, with the expectation that it might reach heights between $1 and $2 million.
For LeBrecht, the photoshoot was more than just another assignment; it was the beginning of documenting a legend. "This was the first time I shot LeBron. Just kind of a simple setup. I had him dunk the ball at least 40 times," he reminisces. "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!'"
A Legacy Continues
As James, now 39 and entering his 22nd NBA season, continues to break records and add accolades to his name, including a recent gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics, the jersey stands as a testament to his enduring impact and storied career.
Returning to the jersey years later evokes a mix of nostalgia and reverence for LeBrecht. "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," he reflects.
Memories and Market Values
The sentimental value of the jersey is unmistakable, a tangible connection to the genesis of James' professional journey. LeBrecht humorously regrets not seizing the moment to keep the jersey back then: "What's f---ed up is I didn't ask to take the jersey home after the shoot."
The upcoming auction in Hong Kong serves as a reminder of James' incredible journey from high school prodigy to NBA luminary. For fans and collectors, the jersey is not just a piece of fabric but a slice of sports history that captures the essence of what it means to be chosen for greatness. As the bidding date approaches, the excitement builds, signaling that LeBron James' legacy continues to shine ever brighter.