LeBron James’ high school jersey, famously worn during his iconic Sports Illustrated cover shoot, is currently on the auction block in Hong Kong, reflecting a significant moment in sports history. This jersey, featured on the February 18, 2002, cover with the headline “Chosen One,” solidified James’ public persona as a basketball prodigy and foreshadowed his illustrious career. As David Goodman, CEO of Julien’s Auctions, highlights, “This storied jersey represents the pivotal moment of LeBron’s ascension to basketball royalty.” The auction is expected to attract bids ranging from $1 million to $2 million, potentially breaking records for game-worn high school jerseys. This isn’t the first time the jersey has made headlines; it previously sold for $512,200 in 2021 and for $187,500 in 2019, showcasing its increasing monetary and historical value.
LeBron’s legacy as one of basketball’s all-time greats is further underscored by the fact that he now holds the record as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. These achievements not only enhance the jersey’s appeal to collectors but also symbolize James’ profound impact on the sport. The expected high bids for the jersey underline the cultural significance and value attached to James’ early career as he continues to redefine greatness in the NBA. This auction presents a unique opportunity for fans and collectors to own a piece of basketball history that marks the beginning of LeBron’s ascent to stardom, making it a noteworthy event in the realm of sports memorabilia.
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