CLEVELAND — A LeBron James museum opens Saturday in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, showcasing items from the basketball player’s childhood.
Michelle Campbell is executive director of the LeBron James Family Foundation.
She said the foundation purchased House 330 in 2020 and now she is excited about the museum opening.
“LeBron James Arena is all about the experience,” she said.
The items were handpicked from St. Vincent-St. Mary Arena and include everything from the hoops and backboards LeBron used in high school to a replica of the apartment where he grew up.
“In fact, his mother, Ms. Gloria James, was the designer of the Spring Hill Apartments,” Campbell said. “We work closely with her.”
This is something LeBron himself wanted to add to give people the ultimate experience.
“When it all came together, when she walked in there, I was excited,” Campbell said. “She sat at the table and just remembers playing cards and hanging out and spending those days.”
The museum also houses sports memorabilia, including the white suit LeBron wore when he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, as well as moments from each NBA team he led to championships.
But Campbell said fans are also represented.
“This area is a tribute to his fans, who saved and responded to every letter he received,” she said.
Campbell said LeBron wanted the museum to represent his legacy on and off the court.
“Having this museum here is part of a whole legacy and a journey to create a better life and use its platform to do more and better things for others,” she said.