LeBron James Autographs a Good Investment

LeBron James signed his first autograph long before he was old enough to drive. In an age where no great high school player goes unnoticed, James was more famous as a teenager than 90% of NBA and college players. It was more hype than anyone could reasonably be expected to live up to.

Several years later, though, James has not only lived up to the hype, he’s starting to surpass it. LeBron James autographs are now the most sought after by fans and collectors alike. As the 2009 NBA MVP, he’s now in elite company among the game’s greats, but it’s possible signed LeBron James memorabilia is still a relative bargain.

Think about it.

James has already played six seasons in the league. He owns a Rookie of the Year award, an MVP and an Olympic gold medal…and he’s still just 24 years old. It’s possible before he’s through that he’ll own every meaningful NBA record. Almost as important, he’s begun building a reputation as a sportsman, someone who knows how to avoid trouble, has a bit of a social conscience and appreciation for basketball history that endears him to those who admire athletes.

James is an athlete like no other. His exploits bring to mind some of the special things Michael Jordan did as a young player, but James is an NBA player like no other. At 6’8, 260, he’s Jordan in a power forward’s body. He has few weaknesses and a killer instinct. He raised the level of his game in 2008-09 to the point where the Cavs were a clear favorite to win the NBA Eastern Conference title.

Collectors like to gravitate to James autographs because of his superstar status and because he’s proven to be someone worthy of admiration. His connection to his old high school in Akron was so strong that the news conference to announce his MVP award was held there. He cheered this year’s team on from the stands as they captured an Ohio state title—not because he thought it would look good to be there, but because he truly cares. His willingness to play for his country also scores big points among fans.

James has an exclusive autograph arrangement with Upper Deck and the company has produced numerous memorabilia items and basketball cards, many of which sell for hundreds of dollars. You can also find LeBron James autographs by searching eBay—just be sure to buy something with a certificate of authenticity from a respected company or from a dealer with an excellent and lengthy feedback history.

James will be a star for at least another decade and it’s likely his status as an American sports icon hasn’t even scratched the surface. Buying now—even in the wake of a highly-publicized NBA MVP season—is probably a wise investment.