NBA legend LeBron James often describes himself as “just a kid from Akron.”
Now, a museum dedicated to LeBron’s journey from prodigy to NBA superstar will open on November 25 in his hometown of Akron, Ohio.
A self-guided tour of the LeBron James Home Museum begins with the modest Spring Hill Apartments where he lived and the reconstruction of St. Vincent-St. Louis Arena. He played in the gym at Mary High School.
Visitors can also see famous items from LeBron’s personal collection, including an oversized all-white 2003 NBA Draft suit and the infamous 3-1 drum set
There’s also his high school McDonald’s All-American jersey and the original television in his Spring Hill apartment.
Additionally, there are original backboards and hoops from St. Vincent-St. LeBron was dubbed “The Chosen One” at St. Mary’s High School before moving on to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers.
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The gallery also features fan art LeBron has received over the years, original shoes worn during his biggest moments, replicas of James’ family photos from the office, and notes from his journey, including Olympic glory.
“My dream has always been to put Akron on the map, so having a place in my hometown where I can share my journey with fans from around the world means a lot to me,” LeBron said in a statement.
“I’ve held on to a lot of stuff over the years, and I always knew there would be a time and place to get it out.”
The museum is located at Thirty Thirty House, a facility created by the LeBron Foundation to serve the community where he grew up.
General admission tickets are $23 – consistent with his former uniform number – with all proceeds going back to House Three Thirty’s career training programs.
“This is still crazy to me!!” LeBron posted the news on social media.
“I can’t wait to give fans around the world a behind-the-scenes look at what we’ve built and where it all started.
“No one can mess up my room better?
“Only in Akron!”