LeBron James's recently signed, and unprecedented, lifetime deal with Nike marks the triumphant arch of a skinny kid who combined deep-rooted Midwestern values with otherworldly athleticism to find incredible success on and off the basketball court. James’s sphere of influence now extends from sports into style and from entertainment to charitable endeavors, solidifying his status as an international icon.
How did he do it? In Prototype Episode 3: Akronite Philosophy, LeBron James — joined by director Judd Apatow, Nike Senior Basketball designer Jason Petrie and childhood friend Willie McGee — charts his journey from middle school through to the release of the LEBRON 13.
The LEBRON 13 Akronite Philosophy incorporates a five-color upper graphic that attests to James’s loyalty and pride for his hometown of Akron, Ohio, and his journey to Miami and back. The composition features star, lake, hill, field and beach motifs in bright pops of blue, orange, yellow, green and fuchsia — all representing James's path. For example, wheat fields symbolize his upbringing in Akron while abstract palm trees nod to his championships in Miami.
