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LeBron Levels Up as Barbie’s First Kenbassador

From breaking records to breaking molds, LeBron James is teaming up with Mattel as the first official Kenbassador, and there’s a new doll to prove it.

by Christina Rufo | Apr. 9, 2025 | 8:00 PM

Courtesy Mattel

Courtesy Mattel

Since Barbie, the movie, reignited global fascination with the iconic brand, Mattel has been expanding the Barbieverse. Now, it’s Ken’s time to shine, and leading the charge is LeBron James.

Cementing his place in pop culture again, James has been named the very first Kenbassador, celebrating real-life role models who inspire change. The launch of the LeBron James Ken doll pays homage to James’s positive impact within the community.

“As a young kid, I was fortunate to have role models who not only inspired me but also showed me what’s possible through hard work and dedication,” says James in a news release. “Now, as an adult, I understand how vital it is for young people to have positive figures to look up to.” 

The Kenbassador LeBron sports a custom blue varsity jacket layered over the LeBron James Family Foundation’s signature We Are Family tee, paired with Nike Terminator High sneakers, sleek sunglasses, Beats headphones, a watch and a crossbody bag.

The jacket reflects his past, and James himself collaborated on the doll’s clothing choices. From the “23” patch honoring his legendary jersey number to a bold Ohio emblem, each feature is a nod to the roots, values and legacy that define James on and off the court.

The Barbie Signature LeBron James Kenbassadors doll will be available at select Target stores and online at Target.com, Amazon, Walmart and Mattel Creations starting Monday at midnight.

lebron james barbie mattel kenbassador

lebron james barbie mattel kenbassador

lebron james barbie mattel kenbassador


(Courtesy Mattel)

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Christina Rufo

Christina is a passionate reporter on Cleveland's culture and dining scene, compiling Cleveland Magazine's monthly dining guide. A graduate of West Virginia University's journalism school and the New York University Publishing Institute, her work celebrates the people, plates and parties that make Northeast Ohio shine.

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