LeBron James Is the First Athlete Turned into a Ken Doll as Barbie Honors His Legacy and Role as a Youth Mentor

LeBron James Becomes the First Athlete to Inspire a Ken Doll

Barbie has revealed a new Ken doll based on NBA legend LeBron James. This makes James the first professional athlete ever turned into a Ken doll. Mattel, the company behind Barbie, calls him their first official “Kenbassador.”

The doll is more than a toy. It celebrates James’ success on and off the basketball court. It also reflects his strong role as a mentor and leader in the community.

Special Features of the LeBron James Ken Doll

LeBron worked closely with Barbie’s team to design the doll. It’s taller than the usual Ken and wears a varsity jacket with patches linked to James’ Ohio roots. The outfit also includes a “We Are Family” T-shirt, a nod to his foundation.

Accessories include Nike sneakers, Beats headphones, sunglasses, a watch, and his signature “I Promise” wristband. The doll’s look reflects James’ style and the values he promotes.

Honoring His Work with the Youth

The LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF) helped create this special doll. Barbie is also donating to the LJFF to support families and children in Akron, Ohio. The foundation works on education, housing, and job training for underserved communities.

Michele Campbell, executive director of the LJFF, said, “This is so much more than a doll. It represents the reality that a kid from anywhere can make a difference.”

Role Models and Representation Matter

LeBron shared why this doll means so much to him. “As a young kid, I was fortunate to have role models who inspired me,” he said. “Now I want to be that figure for the next generation.”

Mattel’s Krista Berger also spoke on LeBron’s impact. She said the doll honors James as a global icon, cultural leader, and positive role model.

Barbie’s Ongoing Commitment to Empowerment

This doll celebrates Barbie’s 65th anniversary in a powerful way. The company is pushing to expand what their dolls represent. This includes showing men who support and uplift others, just like LeBron James.

Barbie will also donate a copy of LeBron’s children’s book I Am More Than to Save The Children for every doll sold at Target from April 14 to 19.

Where to Buy the LeBron James Ken Doll

The LeBron Kenbassador doll will be available starting April 14. Fans can purchase it from Target, Amazon, Walmart, and Mattel Creations. The doll costs $75.

For those in Los Angeles, the Undefeated store will offer an exclusive early drop on April 12. Some dolls will even be signed by James himself.