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“LeBron James’ rookie card auctioned for an insane $5.2 million”: Lakers legend’s rookie card sets an all-time record for any sports card

Advait Jajodia
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"LeBron James' rookie card auctioned for an insane $5.2 million": Lakers legend's rookie card sets an all-time record for any sports card

A LeBron James rookie card has sold for an all-time record of $5.2 million, tying a record previously held solely by a Mickey Mantle card.

For the last 18-years of his life, James has been entertaining his millions of fans, night in and night out. With his endurance, versatility and overly stacked resume, LBJ proves to us why should he be compared alongside Michael Jordan for the GOAT debate.

Ever since he entered the league as a young 18-year-old, he immediately became the face of the league. He had an instant impact on the team, with not only the city of Cleveland but the entire league welcoming the high schooler with open arms.

As he promised, he did deliver a championship to the team which drafted him apart from the other three championships he’s won. With 4 MVPs, 17 All-Star selections, 4 Finals MVP, Bron is arguably the best ever to step on the hardwood.

Also Read: Julius Erving keeps Kobe Bryant and the Lakers star out of his 2 greatest lineups of all time

LeBron James’ rookie card surpassed Luka Doncic’s rookie card as the most expensive card ever

Recently, an autographed LeBron James rookie basketball card was sold for a whopping $5.2 million. The King’s iconic card is now the most expensive basketball card ever sold.

The sale tied it with the 1952 Mickey Mantle card for the most expensive sports card ever. Luka Doncic’s rookie card previously held the record as the most expensive basketball card, before an anonymous LBJ fan bought this card.

Jessie Craig, the director of business development at PWCC spoke to ESPN about the card. Craig said:

“Exquisite was a revolutionary product when it came out in 2003. It was the most expensive retail product that had ever been released, at $500 a box, and they were only made from 2003 to 2009; the rarity of those assets carries a lot of weight for collectors and investors today.”

“At the heart of every collector in 2003 was the hope of pulling the ultra-rare LeBron James Rookie Patch Auto Parallel numbered to 23 copies.”

Also Read: Ahead of LeBron’s return, Stephen A Smith speculates about his Lakers co-star’s health

At 36-years of age too, King James has been putting MVP-level numbers. Before being sidelined with injuries, LBJ was putting up a tremendous 25.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.9 assists per game. With back-to-back title aspirations, James would give his all to win the franchise’s 18th championship.

About the author

Advait Jajodia

Advait Jajodia

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Advait Jajodia, a seasoned NBA journalist, has had a passion for the game for over a decade. His journey from admiring Kobe Bryant's precision to being in awe of Stephen Curry's long-range mastery instilled a profound understanding of basketball. With a background as a two-time National-level player, Advait uses his experience on the hardwood to offer insightful analysis. Over three years of dedicated sports journalism has equipped the 21-year-old with a unique perspective, reflected in his prolific portfolio of 3,350+ articles.

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