Photo: Mattel
LeBron James has teamed up with Barbie to launch his very own Ken doll.
On Wednesday (April 9), Mattel announced that James would become the brand's very first Kenbassador with the launch of his own doll. The move marks the first time a professional athlete has gotten a Ken doll.
James collaborated with Mattel to design the doll's outfit in his likeness and style. The Ken doll features a custom varsity jacket over the LeBron James Family Foundation's signature "We Are Family" shirt, Nike Terminator High sneakers, Beats headphones, and an "I Promise" band.
The custom varsity jacket includes patches with his jersey number, his home state of Ohio, and the Lebron James Family Foundation's We Are Family moniker.
“As a young kid, I was fortunate to have role models who not only inspired me but also showed me what’s possible through hard work and dedication,” James said in a statement. “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."
"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," he added.
The new Kenbassador title is bringing a new meaning to the Ken doll ahead of Barbie's 65th anniversary in 2026.
“Ken is Barbie’s longtime best friend and supporter,” Krista Berger, senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls, 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.”
The Barbie Signature LeBron James Kenbassadors doll is scheduled to be released on Monday (April 14) in stores and online.
The Black Information Network is your source for Black News! Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.