LeBron James

LeBron James is widely considered the greatest, or second best basketball player of all-time, and despite him being based in the US, has many links to the UK.

LeBron James x Liverpool

In 2011, LeBron James purchased a 2% ownership stake in Liverpool.

James, who played for the Miami Heat at the time, reportedly spent £4.7m ($6.5 million) on his stake in the club. The club is currently valued at $5.29 billion.

However, James has since relinquished his shares directly in Liverpool. In March 2022, he exchanged his shares for a stake in FSG – who continue to own a stake in Liverpool – along with his business partner Maverick Carter and Paul Wachter. It’s thought that James owns about one per cent of FSG now.

The increase in value in LeBron’s stake, The Mirror have estimated, is around £35m.

As part of his ownership, he has an official merchandise collection with Liverpool Football club, which has now released two editions; with LFC x LeBron CHAPTER 2 being the most recent.

Chapter 2 mixes classic basketball looks with the latest football fits in a fresh black, blue and gold colour palette.

It features black short sleeve stadium jersey, basketball jersey and shorts, football jacket and t-shirts. Gold detailing calls out the iconic phrases ‘you’ll never walk alone’ for LFC, and ‘strive for greatness’ which is LeBron’s motto.

There is one pair of sneakers in the collection LFC x LeBron Nike NXXT Gen Amplified trainers which have an Akron-inspired sole, an ode to LeBron’s roots and AirZoom cushioning.

LeBron James in London

LeBron has made multiple visits to London, most notably playing for Team USA at the London 2012 Olympics where he won a Gold medal.

Other visits included a 2011 trip, where he collaborated with Nike and Midnight Madness, making an appearance at Crystal Palace.

LeBron James in Manchester

LeBron also was in Manchester with Team USA for an Olympic preparation game against Great Britain in July 2012.

James finished with 16 points, six rebounds and four assists in the 118-78 victory over the host nation at the Manchester Arena.

Early Life

LeBron James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio, to Gloria James, who was just 16 at the time of his birth. Growing up in a single-parent household, James faced numerous challenges, including periods of instability and moving from apartment to apartment in the seedy neighbourhoods of Akron. Despite these challenges, James found solace and a sense of purpose in basketball, showing early signs of his exceptional talent.

High School Career

James attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where he was a basketball prodigy, garnering national attention for his outstanding play. He led his team to three state championships in four years, and his senior year exploits were so noteworthy that some of his games were televised nationally, and he appeared on the cover of “Sports Illustrated” with the headline “The Chosen One.”

NBA Career

Cleveland Cavaliers (2003–2010)

LeBron James was selected first overall in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. His arrival was seen as a turning point for the franchise. James lived up to the hype, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. Over the next seven years, he developed into one of the league’s premier players, earning multiple MVP awards and leading the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals in 2007, where they were defeated by the San Antonio Spurs.

Miami Heat (2010–2014)

In 2010, James made the controversial decision to leave Cleveland and join the Miami Heat, forming a “super team” with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. This move was announced in a televised special titled “The Decision.” During his time with the Heat, James won two NBA championships (2012, 2013) and two MVP awards, solidifying his status as one of the game’s greats.

Return to Cleveland (2014–2018)

James returned to the Cavaliers in 2014, vowing to bring a championship to Cleveland. He fulfilled this promise in 2016, leading the team to a historic comeback from a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals. This victory ended a 52-year major sports championship drought for the city of Cleveland.

Los Angeles Lakers (2018–Present)

In 2018, James signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, continuing his illustrious career in one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. He led the Lakers to the 2020 NBA Championship, marking his fourth NBA title and further cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Legacy

LeBron James is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His career is distinguished not only by his on-court achievements but also by his off-court contributions.

James is a prominent social activist, speaking out on various issues, including racial injustice and education reform. Through his LeBron James Family Foundation, he has made significant contributions to education, including opening the I PROMISE School, a public school in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, for at-risk children.

James’ impact on basketball and society at large is profound, transcending the sport and making him a global icon recognized for his excellence, leadership, and philanthropy.