This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/27/2023
Presenting a remarkable auction item of immense historical significance: a pair of 2000 LeBron James Ohio High School Division III Championship Game Worn & Dual-Signed Sneakers, with a compelling photo match. The shoes hold an extraordinary provenance, supplied by our consignor Eddie Jackson, who happens to be LeBron James' stepfather. In this letter, he provides detailed insight into the shoes' origin:
The Jump Man Swift 6 shoes were worn by LeBron James during the 1999-2000 Ohio High School Division III Championship Game, where the undefeated Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary faced off against Jamestown Greenview. Each sneaker bears LeBron's own signature, along with the inscriptions "#23" and "1999-2000 State Champs." Remarkably, this was LeBron's freshman year and marked his first State title victory, catapulting him into the national spotlight with an impressive performance, securing 25 points and 9 rebounds in the championship game. The shoes come accompanied by an original photo capturing LeBron playing in the championship game while sporting these very sneakers, providing undeniable authentication. Additionally, the original shoe box is included, bearing witness to its journey from that pivotal moment in LeBron's life.
These size "14" sneakers exhibit marvelous wear, hinting at their involvement in far more than just a single game, which further enhances their significance. Notably, the presence of the "Jordan" and Jumpman logo branding foreshadows the countless comparisons to be made between these two basketball legends over the ensuing decades. LeBron's bold black sharpie inscriptions and signature offer a glimpse of an early, rare, and highly legible autograph format, making these sneakers even more special.
The included original shoe box has seen its share of wear, having been stored in James' humble childhood home. Notably, the $130 price tag on the box serves as a reminder of the time when LeBron purchased sneakers for himself, a practice that would soon be replaced as he evolved into one of the sport's most revered figures.
To further substantiate the authenticity and significance of these sneakers, additional photos and videos of LeBron playing in them during the Semi-Championship game and Championship game are available for viewing online.
In summary, these sneakers serve as a tangible connection to the early days of LeBron James' extraordinary basketball journey. At the tender age of fifteen, he was already making waves, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and setting the stage for a legendary career. With its unique historical value and undeniable provenance, this auction item represents an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and basketball enthusiasts alike to own a piece of history associated with one of the sport's most iconic figures.