All-time NBA points leader LeBron James is no stranger to making history – but his latest achievement is more likely to land in a toy chest than a trophy cabinet.
On Wednesday, toy giant Mattel announced that they created a Ken doll in the likeness of the 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers superstar, the first of its kind for a male athlete.
“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,” said Krista Berger, senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls at Mattel, in a statement.
James played an active role in designing the doll, which dons street clothes inspired by the star’s pre-game outfits – high-top Nikes, patterned pants and a varsity jacket over a shirt reading “We Are Family,” a nod to his charitable foundation. And as most humans are dwarfed next to James’ 6’9” frame, the doll stands an inch taller than the other Kens.
The “King’s” reaction to seeing his first Barbie World foray in the flesh – or plastic, more accurately – was included in a promotional video released by Mattel. “Oh, he dope. That’s so cool,” James remarked, before adding that his likeness needs to spend a little more time in the gym: “He might need to do a little lifting, legs look a little skinny.”
While James is Mattel’s inaugural “Kenbassador” and the first male athlete to be featured by the brand, he’s not the only basketball player to be immortalized in a Barbie box. Last year, WNBA and University of Connecticut legend Sue Bird was honoured with a “Role Model” Barbie in her image. Tennis stars Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka, as well as soccer great Megan Rapinoe, have also been featured.
“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,” said James in Mattel’s statement.
James’ doll is sure to be in high demand with collectors and young fans alike, but its release also comes at a tenuous time for Mattel, which sources 40 per cent of its production from China. U.S. President Donald Trump’s escalating tariffs against the country (reported today as having risen as high as 146 per cent) threaten to disrupt supply chains and inflate prices.
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