LeBron James’ high school jersey, famously featured on the 2002 Sports Illustrated cover that dubbed him “The Chosen One,” is set to break records as the most expensive high school jersey ever auctioned. Early estimates suggest the jersey could fetch between $1 million and $2 million, potentially surpassing previous sales and setting a new benchmark in sports memorabilia.
The jersey, worn by James during his junior year at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio, will be auctioned by Julien’s Auctions in Hong Kong in September 2024. The jersey’s significance is rooted in its association with a pivotal moment in LeBron James’ life and career.
The February 2002 Sports Illustrated cover marked the beginning of James’ journey from a high school prodigy to an NBA superstar. The iconic photograph, taken by Michael LeBrecht, captured a young LeBron in the now-famous green and gold uniform, a moment that would introduce him to a national audience and set the stage for his illustrious career.
This jersey has already seen substantial appreciation in value. It was first auctioned in 2019 for $187,500, and then again in 2021 for $512,200. The current auction, however, is expected to set a new record, with estimates suggesting it could sell for up to $2 million. This would make it the most expensive high school jersey ever sold, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the item. The auction will also feature limited-edition photo prints from the original Sports Illustrated shoot, adding further value to the event.
The jersey’s sale comes at a time when LeBron James’ legacy is firmly established, not only as one of the greatest basketball players of all time but also as a cultural icon. As James continues his career, this jersey stands as a tangible piece of history, symbolizing the beginning of a journey that has captivated fans worldwide for over two decades.
Is LeBron James The Greatest High School Player Ever?
LeBron James is often considered the greatest high school basketball player ever, a claim that holds significant weight when you examine his incredible achievements during his time at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio. LeBron’s high school career was nothing short of legendary, marked by jaw-dropping statistics, team success, and a level of national attention that was unprecedented for a teenage athlete.
LeBron entered high school with immense expectations, and he exceeded them from the start. Over his four years, LeBron led St. Vincent-St. Mary to three state championships and a national championship.
His impact was immediate; as a freshman, he averaged 21 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, leading his team to a 27-0 record and the Division III state title. By his senior year, those numbers had soared to 31.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, making him the consensus top player in the nation.
What truly sets LeBron apart is how he dominated not just at the state level but also on the national stage. His games were broadcast on ESPN, an unheard-of feat for a high school athlete at the time. He was named to the USA Today All-USA First Team three times, the only underclassman ever to receive such an honor multiple times. His performances were so spectacular that by his junior year, he was gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated with the now-famous headline, “The Chosen One.”
Beyond individual accolades, LeBron’s leadership and unselfish play were crucial in turning St. Vincent-St. Mary into a national powerhouse. He was a player who could dominate in every aspect of the game—scoring, rebounding, passing, and defending. His combination of size, athleticism, basketball IQ, and skill was unmatched, even at such a young age.
LeBron’s high school legacy is further solidified by the fact that he skipped college to enter the NBA Draft, where he was the first overall pick in 2003. His high school success directly translated to an illustrious professional career, further proving that he was not just a product of hype but genuinely the best high school player ever.
In sum, LeBron James wasn’t just a great high school player; he redefined what greatness meant at that level, and his legacy as the best high school basketball player ever remains unmatched.
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