LeBron James has became the first professional male athelete in the world with a Ken doll.
According to AsianImage, Mattel Inc. On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, unvieled a new Barbie in James' likeness, making his first male athelete in the history to be honoured as a Ken doll.
Krista Berger, Mattel's senior vice president of Barbie said, “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.”
She further added that for the LeBron James Family Foundation and other families, it was more than a Ken doll as it represents the fact that a kid from anywhere can make a difference.
The National Basketball Association expressed, “As a young kid, I was fortunate to have role models who not only inspired me but also showed me what is possible through hard work and dedication.”
He continued, “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 honour.”
The 40-year-old believes that it was an opportunity to recognise the powerful impact of role models who instil confidence, inspire dreams and show kids that they can also achieve greatness.
The Los Angeles Lakers player doll is wearing a royal blue varsity jacket with initials and his jersey number and Ohio State patches.
James Ken doll also features a black top that reads “We are family” and a wristband reading “I promise”, which reference his charity, along with wearing blue and white Nike trainers, Beats headphones, a black cap, sunglasses and a gold watch.
