LeBron James makes history and Barbie has something to do with it
The fit has to be on point when you enter Barbie’s world, even if you’re LeBron James.
Mattel, the maker of Barbie, announced on Wednesday that the Los Angeles Lakers star, and the first player in NBA history to score 50,000 career points, is getting his own doll that will be the first-ever Ken doll created in the likeness of a professional athlete.
"Ken is Barbie’s longtime best friend and supporter,” Krista Berger, senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls with Mattel, said in a statement. “We are excited to bring fans a new presentation of Ken that celebrates LeBron as a role model, his icon status, lasting impact on culture, and dedication to setting a positive example for the next generation to reach their limitless potential.”
Mattel said it partnered with the LeBron James Family Foundation to create his signature “Kenbassador” doll in recognition of the iconic basketball star’s “positive impact on culture, style, and community.”
The foundation, which James started, aims to uplift his local community in Akron, Ohio, by providing tangible support to families through education, housing, healthcare, and job training.
In a statement, James said he was fortunate as a young kid “to have role models who not only inspired me but also showed me what’s possible through hard work and dedication.”
“Now, as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to. That’s why partnering with Barbie to release the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll is such an honor,” said James. “It’s an opportunity to recognize the powerful impact of role models who instill confidence, inspire dreams, and show kids that they, too, can achieve greatness."
Mattel said James worked closely with the company to personalize the doll’s outfit, which includes a custom varsity jacket over the LeBron James Family Foundation’s signature “We Are Family” T-shirt, Nike Terminator High sneakers, Beats headphones, sunglasses, a fanny pack, a watch and James’ ‘I Promise’ wristband.
The patches on the doll’s varsity jacket reference milestones moments throughout James’ life, including a “We Are Family” patch as a tribute to the LeBron James Family Foundation, a 23 patch representing his iconic jersey number, and an Ohio patch representing his hometown, Mattel said.
The doll also pays homage to James’ 6-foot-9 height by standing one inch taller than the standard Ken doll.
Mattel said the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll (priced at $75) will be available for purchase on April 14 at Target, Walmart and on Amazon and Mattel Creations.