LeBron James Museum opens Saturday with exhibits unique to Akron

A museum exploring the life and career of LeBron James opens Saturday at House Three Thirty in downtown Akron. LeBron James’ home court features artifacts that can only be seen in the athlete’s hometown, such as his childhood drum set and his McDonald’s All-American jersey.

“When he got into the NBA, he always said he wanted to put Akron on the map,” said Michelle Campbell, executive director of the LeBron James Family Foundation. “He’s worked in Cleveland, Miami and now Los Angeles, but he’s never forgotten where he came from.”

James has been in the NBA since 2003 and is the league’s all-time leading scorer. He founded the LeBron James Family Foundation in 2004, which has since grown to include the I Promise Institute and I Promise School, among other programs.

Campbell said James fans can often be found driving by the I Promise school and taking photos on outdoor benches marked “I Promise” and “We are a family.” These visitors do not have access to the interior of the school, so the museum provides a deeper understanding.

“We definitely want this to be a destination not only for our community and the people who live here, but for anyone and everyone who drives by,” she said. “Purchasing this facility allows us to open our doors to anyone interested in coming to town.”

The self-guided tour begins with the redevelopment of Spring Hill Apartments masterminded by James’ mother. Next up is St. Vincent-St. Mary’s LeBron James Arena features the original hoops and backboards that James used when he played in high school.

“You see the TV that he actually watched, the computer that he did his homework on, the trophies that he got growing up,” Campbell said.

He won NBA championships in Cleveland, Miami and Los Angeles and helped USA Basketball win gold medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. Notable items such as the all-white suit he wore in the 2003 NBA Draft, fan art and original jerseys and shoes are displayed throughout. Below is a replica of his personal office, which includes photos of James’ entire family.

The final section of the museum traces the evolution of the LeBron James Family Foundation. Featured items include the bike James rode during the Foundation’s inaugural Bikeathon and various “I Promise” memorabilia.

“He lives the way he plays basketball, the way he plays basketball, not just LeBron. He knows he can’t win a championship without his team members,” Campbell said. “What you see in this museum is a tribute to everyone who helped him on his journey, whether it was his team members, his family or his fans.”

Tickets are $23, but children five and under attend free. Proceeds will benefit House Three 30’s job training programs. Campbell said it provides new skills and job opportunities for I Promise students, parents and educators.

“He’s an unbelievable basketball player,” Campbell said. “But his legacy, when this is all said and done, the bigger story will be all the work he did off the field in his hometown of Akron to inspire and help others achieve their dreams.”

House Thirty Thirty is a cashless facility and no bags other than small cross-body bags and wallets are allowed.

Ohio State vs. Ohio State-Michigan football game to be screened publicly on Saturday Venues at House Three 30 include the Den and Cabaret, and food and drinks are available for purchase.