Lakers legend LeBron James is the first pro athlete to get a Ken doll
LeBron James teams up with Mattel to release a Ken doll in his likeness, marking the first time a professional athlete has been featured. The "Kenbassador" doll, launching in celebration of Ken’s 65th anniversary.
LeBron James is making history once again, this time off the court. The NBA legend, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, is now being immortalized in a whole new way: as a Ken doll.
Through a partnership between his LeBron James Family Foundation and Mattel, Inc., James has created the first-ever Ken doll modeled after a professional athlete. This groundbreaking release celebrates not only his athletic achievements but also his status as a positive role model for the next generation.
Los Angeles Lakers star will have a Ken doll
James, the NBA's all-time leading scorer and 21-time All-Star, has teamed up with Mattel, Inc. through his LeBron James Family Foundation to create a doll modeled after him, marking the first time a professional athlete has been featured as a Ken doll.
"As a young boy, I was lucky to have role models who not only motivated me but also, butonstrated what can be achieved through hard work and commitment. Now, as an adult, I see the importance of young people having positive figures to look up to," James said in a statement.
"This is an opportunity to acknowledge the powerful influence of role models who build confidence, ignite dreams, and show children that they too can accomplish greatness."
When will LeBron James' doll be available?
The LeBron James "Kenbassador" doll will be available for purchase online starting Monday, priced at $75. It will be released by Mattel in time for Ken’s 65th anniversary.
The doll comes dressed in a varsity jacket with his initials and a patch displaying his jersey number 23, along with a nod to his home state of Ohio. It also includes a wristband that reads "I Promise," which is the name of a school in Akron, Ohio, as well as Beats by Dre headphones, a black hat, sunglasses, a gold watch, and a black "We Are Family" T-shirt from the LeBron James Family Foundation.
"We’re thrilled to offer fans a fresh version of Ken that honors LeBron as a role model, celebrates his iconic status, lasting influence on culture, and his commitment to inspiring the next generation to realize their full potential," said Krista Berger, senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls at Mattel.