Basketball great LeBron James Has become the first pro male athlete to have his image featured in a Ken doll.
On Wednesday, Mattel Inc. launched the LeBron Ken doll as part of their new "Kenbassador" series. In the previous year, they had debuted nine Barbie dolls featuring prominent women athletes like tennis champion Venus Williams.
"As a child, I was lucky enough to have mentors who motivated me and demonstrated what can be achieved with determination and effort," James stated.
“As an adult, I now realize the importance of having admirable role models for younger generations. Partnering with Barbie to launch the LeBron James Kenbassadors doll is truly an honor because it allows us to acknowledge the significant influence these inspirations have. They build confidence, ignite aspirations, and demonstrate to children that they also possess the potential to accomplish remarkable feats.”
The LeBron doll sports sunglasses, headphones, and a blue-and-white Letterman’s jacket featuring "LJ" on the left chest, his number 23 on the right sleeve, along with patches of Ohio and a crown on the remaining area.
His first name appears at the rear with "Just a kid from Akron" below it. The message on his T-shirt reads "We Are Family," which pays homage to the LeBron James Family Foundation. As expected, his blue footwear is Nike sneakers.
The price of the doll is $75 and it will be available at a discounted rate starting Monday.
In a video produced by the Associated Press showing James encountering the doll for the first time, he, known as the "King," gave his endorsement. He described the doll as "dope" multiple times, which means "awesome."
As he examined it, he placed an "IPromise" bracelet around the doll's wrist and tightened the strap on its bum bag.
Alright, we’re set," James stated. "Though, he may have to do some light lifting. His legs seem a bit thin. He looks like a frail little guy. But nah, everything’s cool.
Krista Berger, who serves as the senior vice president at Mattel, pointed out that Ken has been Barbie’s long-standing confidant and advocate.
"We're thrilled to present Ken in a way that honors LeBron as a role model, celebrating his iconic status, cultural influence, and commitment to inspiring future generations to achieve their boundless potential," Berger stated.
