Finding a “Ken”-Ship in Play: LeBron’s New First

WHAT A DOLL!

Michigan has been very nice to me so far, please remember that when I tell you that when it comes to the NBA, I'm a fan of the OKC Thunder. But even diehard fans--Thunder and Pistons alike--have to admit one thing: LeBron James is one of the best professional basketball players—EVER!

One of my favorite LeBron James facts is that he holds the #2 seat at the box office, just behind Michael Jordan (Space Jam) and above Shaq (Kazaam, Blue Chips, Steel, Scary Movie 4). 

Random Michigan fact—some of the scenes in Blue Chips were shot in the Pontiac Silverdome! 

OTHER NOTABLE STATS: 

• 4x NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP)  
• 4x NBA Championships (with three different teams — Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Los Angeles Lakers) 
• 3x Olympic Gold Medals – 2008, 2012, 2024 
• First NBA player to reach 50,000 career points (March 5, 2025, Lakers v. Pelicans) 
• He and son, "Bronny," were the first father-son duo to play simultaneously in the NBA.

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ANOTHER FIRST

Now, LeBron has another first--one that puts him in a league and hopefully environmentally responsible packaging--all his own. He is the first male athlete to become...

 ...wait for it... 

 A BARBIE DOLL!!!! 

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While Mattel has immortalized several female athletes like Serena Williams and Kristi Yamaguchi in various Barbie lines, LeBron is the first “Ken” doll athlete, part of the Kenbassador series of dolls. The toy company says not only are his game skills the reason for this honor but also his leadership and philanthropy off the court. Mattel said these attributes make him a “...positive example for the next generation to reach their limitless potential.” Mattel has also partnered with the LeBron James Family Foundation, a non-profit that "...invests its time, resources and passion into creating generational change for the kids and families of James’ hometown in Akron, Ohio through a focus on education and co-curricular educational initiatives."

When shown his plastic mini-me, Lebron said “...legs look a little skinny.” But it was apparent that King James gave his approval to his not quite to scale replica. Another first for the King of the Court, complete with accessories. Mini NBA Championship Trophy and Gold Medals not included.  

Which Michigan athlete do you feel Mattel should consider for the Kenbassador series, or as part of female athlete line?  Is there a Michigan athlete that deserves a Ken-ship (sorry, had to be done) with LeBron? Email me the list you'd collect at ivylee@witl.com