LeBron James' Historic High School Basketball Career with the Fighting Irish

LeBron James' journey to NBA superstardom began at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio, where his extraordinary talent was already evident. Playing for the Fighting Irish, James demonstrated exceptional skills that transcended typical high school performance, setting numerous records and attracting unprecedented media attention. His dominance on the court, combined with team success, established him as perhaps the most celebrated high school basketball player in American history.

Early High School Dominance

As a freshman standing 6-foot-2, James immediately made his presence felt on the varsity team. He averaged an impressive 18 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, helping lead the Fighting Irish to a perfect 27-0 record and the Division III state championship4. This remarkable achievement made St. Vincent-St. Mary the only boys high school team in Ohio to finish with an undefeated season that year4. Even at this early stage, James displayed the all-around game that would become his trademark in the NBA.

His sophomore season showed significant improvement across all statistical categories. James grew physically and developed his game, averaging 25.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 3.7 steals per game4. The Fighting Irish continued their winning ways, finishing the season with a near-perfect 26-1 record and securing their second consecutive state championship4. This exceptional performance earned James his first Ohio Mr. Basketball award and selection to the USA Today All-USA First Team – becoming the first sophomore to achieve either honor4.

National Recognition and Growth

By his junior year, James had grown to 6-foot-7 and his basketball abilities had developed proportionally. Averaging 28 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals per game, he once again claimed the Ohio Mr. Basketball title and repeated as a USA Today All-USA First Team selection4. The Fighting Irish compiled a 23-4 record that season, though they fell short in the Division II championship game4. Despite this setback, James became the first junior to be named the Gatorade National Player of the Year, further cementing his status as an elite prospect4.

James' growing fame created unprecedented interest in St. Vincent-St. Mary's games. To accommodate the surge in attendance from alumni, fans, and scouts from colleges and NBA teams, some home games were moved to the University of Akron's 5,492-seat Rhodes Arena4. This unusual arrangement for a high school team highlighted how James' presence had transformed high school basketball into a major attraction.

Media Spotlight and Growing Fame

The attention surrounding James reached new heights during his junior year when he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated, becoming the first high school basketball underclassman to receive this honor4. The accompanying feature article in Slam magazine described the 16-year-old James as "possibly the best high school basketball player in America right now"4. This media coverage turned James into a national sensation well before he graduated high school.

James' talent was so evident that following his junior season, he attempted to challenge the NBA's draft eligibility rules to enter the 2002 NBA draft, though this petition was unsuccessful4. His high school performances had already convinced many scouts and analysts that he was ready for professional competition, despite his young age.

Relationship with Coaches and Development

LeBron has spoken about the significant influence his high school coach had on his development. In a 2024 interview, James reflected on what he learned: "I think the number one thing that I learned from him right away is how to not only approach the game but also how to think the game and also play at a level that was a lot harder and determined than the tournaments that I was playing in beforehand"3. This coaching helped shape James' basketball IQ and mental approach to the game, elements that would become defining characteristics of his professional career.

Eligibility Controversies

James' senior year was not without controversy. In early 2003, the Ohio High School Athletic Association ruled him ineligible after he accepted two vintage sports jerseys worth $845 from a clothing store, which violated state bylaws on amateurism2. This ruling came shortly after James had been cleared in a separate investigation regarding a $50,000-plus SUV he received as an 18th birthday gift from his mother2.

The jersey incident resulted in St. Vincent-St. Mary being forced to forfeit a victory and temporarily sidelined the young star. According to reports, Commissioner Clair Muscaro declared James ineligible on February 1, 2003, with the store owner later claiming the OHSAA "rushed to judgment" in their decision2. This controversy provided an early taste of the intense scrutiny James would face throughout his career.

Final High School Game

James' illustrious high school career concluded on March 13, 2003, when St. Vincent-St. Mary faced Tallmadge High School in Ohio's Division II regional semifinals1. The game, played at the University of Toledo's Savage Hall, drew an impressive crowd of 8,700 spectators1. The Fighting Irish dominated the contest, winning by a decisive score of 82-321.

Despite playing only 22 minutes due to an injury (he ripped part of his fingernail off his right index finger while blocking a shot), James still delivered an impressive performance with 19 points, nine assists, and six rebounds1. True to form, he entertained the crowd with highlight-reel plays including a between-the-legs pass, a reverse dunk, and dynamic fast breaks1. This final high school performance provided a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary prep career.

Legacy and Transition to the NBA

LeBron James' high school basketball career established new standards for both performance and publicity. His combination of physical gifts, basketball intelligence, and mature game made him one of the most highly anticipated NBA prospects in history. Following his graduation, James was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 NBA draft, becoming one of the most successful prep-to-pro players ever4.

The "King James" nickname that would follow him throughout his professional career began to take shape during these formative years at St. Vincent-St. Mary. His high school achievements—including multiple state championships, individual awards, and statistical dominance—created expectations that seemed impossible to fulfill, yet his subsequent NBA career has arguably exceeded even those lofty projections.

Conclusion

LeBron James' high school career with the Fighting Irish represents one of the most remarkable chapters in American sports history. From his freshman year breakthrough to his dominant senior season, James demonstrated abilities far beyond his years. Despite facing intense scrutiny and controversy, he maintained focus on developing his game while leading his team to multiple championships.

His time at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School not only launched an exceptional NBA career but also changed how high school basketball players could be marketed and covered by mainstream media. Over two decades after his final high school game, LeBron James continues to build upon the foundation established during those formative years with the Fighting Irish, cementing his legacy as one of basketball's all-time greats.

Citations:

1. https://goldmedalimpressions.com/shop/lebron-james-last-high-school-game/

2. http://assets.espn.go.com/nba/news/2003/0201/1502608.html

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYIfTbSS8SE

4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James

5. https://edodevenreporting.com/2011/05/24/commentary-piece-on-lebron-from-his-senior-year-in-high-school-2002/

6. https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/33486395/the-chosen-ones-oral-history-lebron-james-only-loss-ohio-team-legendary-high-school-career

7. https://infiniteauctions.com/LeBron_James_St__Mary___St__Vincent_Fighting_Irish-LOT1143.aspx

8. https://www.stvm.com/list-detail?pk=110430

9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyBQwinfTTY

10. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nC9z57MuaI

11. https://www.si.com/nba/2011/09/07/07lebron-james-in-high-school

12. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3RL5RkMGvw

13. https://ohiobasketballhalloffame.com/hall-of-fame/inductees/2009/akron-st-vincent-st-mary.html

14. http://infiniteauctions.com/lebron_james_st__mary___st__vincent_fighting_irish-lot1916.aspx

15. https://www.nytimes.com/2003/02/01/sports/basketball-lebron-james-is-ruled-ineligible-after-taking-gifts.html

16. https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/6bij9n/mcmenamin_lebron_james_is_wearing_his_high/

17. https://www.statmuse.com/nba/ask/which-player-has-the-most-wins-against-lebron

18. https://videos.marca.com/v/x9g5i1k-hyped-up-lebron-james-and-savannah-james-lose-their-minds-during-bryces-final-high-school-game

19. https://sports.yahoo.com/article/lebron-james-attend-son-bryces-011819762.html

20. https://www.si.com/high-school/national/lebron-james-attends-son-s-final-high-school-game-at-state-championships-in-sacramento-01jpaqk34qk2

Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share

### Key Points

- Research suggests LeBron James played high school basketball for St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio, known as the Fighting Irish, from 1999 to 2003.

- It seems likely he wore jersey number 23, leading the team to three state championships in his sophomore, junior, and senior years.

- The evidence leans toward his high school career being marked by national attention, with games broadcast on TV and him setting Ohio's all-time scoring record at 2,667 points.

### LeBron James's High School Career

LeBron James attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where he played for the Fighting Irish basketball team. His high school career was exceptional, starting as a freshman in 1999 and leading the team to a dominant record, losing only six games over four years.

### Achievements with the Fighting Irish

James was instrumental in winning three consecutive Ohio state championships from 2001 to 2003. He earned accolades like Ohio's Mr. Basketball in his junior and senior years and was a McDonald's All-American in his senior year, showcasing his talent early on.

### Cultural Impact

His games drew national attention, often broadcast on ESPN, and he was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated at age 17, highlighting his status as a high school phenom. The school's gym was later renamed the LeBron James Arena in 2012 after his donation for renovations.

---

### Comprehensive Analysis of LeBron James and the St. Vincent-St. Mary Fighting Irish High School Basketball Team

LeBron James, widely recognized as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, first rose to prominence during his high school career with the St. Vincent-St. Mary Fighting Irish in Akron, Ohio. His time with the Fighting Irish, from 1999 to 2003, was marked by extraordinary achievements and unprecedented media attention, setting the stage for his professional NBA career. This analysis explores his early life, high school tenure, notable achievements, team dynamics, and cultural impact, providing a detailed examination supported by citations and organized tables.

#### Early Life and High School Enrollment

Born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio, to his mother, Gloria James, who was 16 at the time, LeBron faced early challenges, often moving apartments due to financial struggles, as detailed in [LeBron James - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James). Introduced to basketball at age nine while living with his youth football coach for stability, he played AAU basketball with friends Sian Cotton, Dru Joyce III, and Willie McGee, all of whom later attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, as noted in [LeBron James - High School, Amateur, and Exhibition Stats | Basketball-Reference.com](https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/j/jamesle01/lebron-high-school-amateur-exhibition.html). In 1999, he enrolled at this private Catholic school, known for its athletic programs, where he would spend his high school years.

#### High School Career and Jersey Number

James played for the Fighting Irish, the school's basketball team, wearing jersey number 23, a number he continued in the NBA with teams like the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers, as confirmed by photos and highlights, such as those on [Looking Back at LeBron James’ High School Experience | GMTM](https://gmtm.com/articles/looking-back-at-lebron-james-high-school-experience). His four-year tenure, from 1999 to 2003, saw the team lose only six games, with his freshman year (1999-2000) ending in a 25-3 record and a state semifinal loss, as per [LeBron James high school stats, highlights & records at St. Vincent-St. Mary foreshadowed NBA GOAT career | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/lebron-james-high-school-stats-highlights-st-vincent-st-mary-nba/tnitzjaldmddkgshl6wwckfn).

#### Achievements and Team Success

James's impact was immediate, averaging 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists per game as a freshman, setting the stage for dominance. His sophomore year (2000-2001) saw a 26-2 record, winning the state championship; junior year (2001-2002) had a 27-1 record, another state title; and senior year (2002-2003) finished 26-1, with the lone loss a forfeiture, securing a third consecutive championship, as detailed in [LeBron James high school stats, highlights & records at St. Vincent-St. Mary foreshadowed NBA GOAT career | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/lebron-james-high-school-stats-highlights-st-vincent-st-mary-nba/tnitzjaldmddkgshl6wwckfn). His total high school points reached 2,667, making him Ohio's all-time leading scorer, a record noted in [LeBron James Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft Status and more | Basketball-Reference.com](https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/j/jamesle01.html).

Individual accolades included being named Ohio's Mr. Basketball in both his junior and senior years, and a McDonald's All-American selection in his senior year, highlighting his talent, as seen in [LeBron James - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James).

#### Team Dynamics and Notable Teammates

James played alongside several talented teammates, forming the "Fab Four" with Dru Joyce III, Sian Cotton, and Romeo Travis, who contributed to the team's success, as mentioned in [Looking Back at LeBron James’ High School Experience | GMTM](https://gmtm.com/articles/looking-back-at-lebron-james-high-school-experience). The team was coached by Keith Dambrot, who later became head coach at Duquesne University, adding to the team's competitive edge, as noted in [LeBron James - High School, Amateur, and Exhibition Stats | Basketball-Reference.com](https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/j/jamesle01/lebron-high-school-amateur-exhibition.html).

#### Cultural Impact and Media Attention

James's high school career was a cultural phenomenon, with games often broadcast nationally on ESPN, adjacent to professional sporting events, as detailed in [Looking Back at LeBron James’ High School Experience | GMTM](https://gmtm.com/articles/looking-back-at-lebron-james-high-school-experience). He was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated at age 17, an unprecedented level of attention for a high school athlete, as seen in [LeBron James - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James). Many games were moved to the University of Akron's arena to satisfy demand, with his senior year games televised nationally, drawing significant viewership, as noted in [LeBron James high school stats, highlights & records at St. Vincent-St. Mary foreshadowed NBA GOAT career | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/lebron-james-high-school-stats-highlights-st-vincent-st-mary-nba/tnitzjaldmddkgshl6wwckfn).

#### Legacy and Post-High School Impact

In recognition of his contributions, the St. Vincent-St. Mary High School gym was renamed the "LeBron James Arena" after he donated $1 million for its renovation in 2012, marked by a grand opening on December 14, 2013, as detailed in [LeBron James Arena - St. Vincent-St. Mary High School](https://www.stvm.com/list-detail?pk=110430). This honor reflects his lasting impact on the school and community, with the arena featuring a regulation 94-by-50 sports performance floor and new bleachers, adding 200 seats to a capacity of 1,831.

#### Table: High School Basketball Career Stats

| **Year** | **Record** | **Points Scored** | **State Championship** |

|-----------------|--------------|-------------------|-----------------------|

| 1999-2000 (Fr.) | 25-3 | 500 (est.) | No, lost in semifinals|

| 2000-2001 (So.) | 26-2 | 650 (est.) | Yes |

| 2001-2002 (Jr.) | 27-1 | 700 (est.) | Yes |

| 2002-2003 (Sr.) | 26-1 | 817 (est.) | Yes |

| **Total** | 104-7 | 2,667 | 3 Championships |

*Note: Exact points per year estimated based on total career points of 2,667.*

#### Table: Key Achievements

| **Achievement** | **Year** | **Details** |

|------------------------------|----------|------------------------------------------|

| Ohio's Mr. Basketball | 2002, 2003| Named in junior and senior years |

| McDonald's All-American | 2003 | Selected as a senior |

| Sports Illustrated Cover | 2002 | Featured at age 17, unprecedented for HS |

| Arena Renaming | 2012 | Gym renamed LeBron James Arena, $1M donation |

This comprehensive analysis ensures all facets of LeBron James's association with the St. Vincent-St. Mary Fighting Irish are addressed, from his playing years to his legacy, supported by detailed citations and organized tables.

### Key Citations

- [LeBron James - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James)

- [LeBron James - High School, Amateur, and Exhibition Stats | Basketball-Reference.com](https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/j/jamesle01/lebron-high-school-amateur-exhibition.html)

- [Looking Back at LeBron James’ High School Experience | GMTM](https://gmtm.com/articles/looking-back-at-lebron-james-high-school-experience)

- [LeBron James high school stats, highlights & records at St. Vincent-St. Mary foreshadowed NBA GOAT career | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/lebron-james-high-school-stats-highlights-st-vincent-st-mary-nba/tnitzjaldmddkgshl6wwckfn)

- [LeBron James Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft Status and more | Basketball-Reference.com](https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/j/jamesle01.html)

- [LeBron James Arena - St. Vincent-St. Mary High School](https://www.stvm.com/list-detail?pk=110430)

When you think of LeBron James, you probably picture the NBA superstar dominating the court with his incredible athleticism and basketball IQ. However, before he was a household name racking up championships and MVP awards, he was just a kid playing for St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio—affectionately known as the Fighting Irish. Let’s take a moment to appreciate how those high school years shaped him into the player we admire today. First off, let’s talk about the atmosphere surrounding LeBron's games in high school. It was electric! His matchups were often compared to college-level rivalries, drawing crowds that filled gymnasiums to capacity (Penn Today, 2020). One of his most memorable performances came during a nationally televised game at The Palestra in Philadelphia in December 2002. Even though he scored only six points in the first half against Strawberry Mansion, his passing and court vision were on full display. He wasn’t just a scorer; he was a leader who could elevate his teammates’ play (Penn Today, 2020). You can see how even then he was setting himself apart from typical high school players. LeBron's time at St. Vincent-St. Mary wasn't just about individual accolades; it was about building a winning culture that would follow him throughout his career. Under Coach Dru Joyce II, the Fighting Irish became synonymous with success and teamwork (Wikipedia, 2024). The lessons learned during those formative years—discipline, hard work, and resilience—have undoubtedly contributed to LeBron's longevity and success in professional basketball.

LeBron James's Untold High School Basketball Saga: Could He Have Been a Fighting Irish Legend?

Imagine a world where LeBron James, instead of ruling the Akron courts, was electrifying South Bend. What if "King James" donned the gold and blue? What if he brought his talents to Notre Dame? This "what if" scenario sparks curiosity. Let's explore LeBron's potential connection to the Fighting Irish. His high school career was legendary, and Notre Dame has a storied basketball program. What could've happened if these two forces collided?

The Allure of Notre Dame: Why Would LeBron Consider the Fighting Irish?

Notre Dame holds serious appeal. Its academic prestige, athletic tradition, and national platform are big draws. It's easy to imagine why a young LeBron might have been interested. Let's explore these reasons in depth.

Notre Dame's Academic Reputation and the James Family

Education mattered in LeBron's upbringing. His family stressed its importance. Notre Dame's academics might have appealed to them. A solid education combined with top-tier athletics? That's a powerful combo. It would have made Notre Dame a tempting option.

The Fighting Irish Basketball Legacy

Notre Dame's basketball history is rich. Many talented players have come through the program. Though they lack an NCAA title, success is no stranger. Think about names like Austin Carr and Luke Harangody. They left their mark. Notre Dame offered a platform for greatness.

National Exposure: A Platform for a Rising Star

Notre Dame's national reach is huge. Their NBC deal puts them in homes across the country. This exposure could have amplified LeBron's fame. Imagine "King James" on national TV every week. It would have been a marketing dream. He would have been a household name even faster.

Northeast Ohio Roots: St. Vincent-St. Mary and LeBron's Akron Legacy

LeBron had deep roots in Akron, Ohio. Playing for St. Vincent-St. Mary High School meant something. His commitment ran deep. Let's examine his Akron legacy.

The St. Vincent-St. Mary Dynasty: Building a Championship Program

LeBron's high school career at SVSM was amazing. Championships and national recognition followed. They were a force to be reckoned with. His time there defined high school basketball. SVSM was more than just a team; it was a dynasty.

Loyalty and Community: LeBron's Commitment to Akron

LeBron's ties to Akron are strong. These bonds influenced his choice to stay local. He wanted to give back to his community. This loyalty shaped his early career. Staying in Akron meant more than just basketball.

The "Fab Five" Era: LeBron and His Teammates

The chemistry between LeBron and his teammates was special. They were a dynamic group. Their teamwork led to success. They played as one, a true "Fab Five." Together, they dominated high school basketball.

The Recruiting Landscape: Notre Dame vs. the Nation

The recruiting battle for LeBron James was intense. Top programs wanted him. What was Notre Dame's strategy, if any? Let's see how they stacked up.

The Nation's Top Programs: Duke, Kentucky, and Others

Duke, Kentucky, and others were in the mix. They all wanted LeBron. Their recruiting pitches were strong. These schools had big basketball reputations. The competition was fierce.

Notre Dame's Basketball Recruiting Philosophy: A Different Approach?

Did Notre Dame's recruiting align with attracting LeBron? Their approach might have been different. They might have focused on academics first. This could have been a disadvantage. It's possible they didn't prioritize him like other schools.

The NBA Beckons: The Lure of Professional Basketball

The pressure on LeBron to skip college was growing. The NBA draft was a real option. He could go pro straight out of high school. This was a tempting path for many. The NBA offered fame and fortune.

What If?: Simulating LeBron's Impact on Notre Dame Basketball

What if LeBron had chosen Notre Dame? How would it have changed their basketball program? What would the broader college landscape look like? Let's speculate.

A National Championship Contender?: Projecting Notre Dame's Success with LeBron

With LeBron, Notre Dame could have been a title contender. They could have made deep NCAA tournament runs. He could have been the missing piece. A championship could have been within reach.

The Ripple Effect: Recruiting and Program Prestige

LeBron's presence could have attracted other top recruits. Notre Dame's prestige would have soared. Everyone would want to play with "King James." The program would have become a magnet for talent.

The Legacy of LeBron at Notre Dame: A Hypothetical Dynasty?

Imagine LeBron's legacy at Notre Dame. Championships and lasting impact are likely. A dynasty could have been built. He would have been a legend in South Bend. His jersey would hang in the rafters forever.

Lessons Learned: Recruiting, Loyalty, and the NBA's Influence

What can we learn from this "what if" scenario? Consider the changing world of recruiting. Think about loyalty and the NBA's pull. There's much to consider.

The Evolving Recruiting Game: Adapting to the Modern Athlete

NIL deals and other factors now influence athletes. The recruiting game has changed. Schools must adapt to the modern athlete. Money and endorsements play a big role.

Loyalty vs. Opportunity: Balancing Local Ties with National Ambitions

There's tension between loyalty and opportunity. Should athletes stay local or chase national dreams? It's a tough choice to make. Both paths have their rewards.

The NBA's Pull: Early Entry and the Professional Path

More high school players bypass college. They go straight to the NBA. Economic and professional factors drive this trend. The lure of the NBA is strong. It's a risk with big potential payoff.

Conclusion

LeBron James's decision shaped basketball history. Choosing St. Vincent-St. Mary was impactful. But imagining him at Notre Dame is fascinating. The "what if" scenario lingers. Regardless of the path not taken, LeBron's impact endures. He remains a basketball icon.

**LeBron James & St. Vincent-St. Mary's "Fighting Irish" High School Basketball Legacy**

**LeBron James** attended **St. Vincent-St. Mary High School** in Akron, Ohio, where he played for the **Fighting Irish** basketball team from 1999 to 2003. His high school career catapulted him to national fame and set the stage for his NBA journey. Here's a detailed breakdown:

---

### **Key Achievements & Stats**

- **State Championships**: Led the Fighting Irish to **three Ohio Division III state titles** (2000, 2001, 2003).

- **Record**: 101–6 over four seasons, including a **27–0 undefeated season** (2002–03, his senior year).

- **Awards**:

- **Ohio Mr. Basketball**: Won the award **three times** (2001, 2002, 2003).

- **Gatorade National Player of the Year**: Twice (2002, 2003).

- **Naismith Prep Player of the Year**: 2003.

- **Stats**:

- **Senior Year**: 31.6 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 4.6 APG, 3.4 SPG.

- **Career**: Scored **2,657 points**, grabbed **892 rebounds**, and dished **523 assists**.

---

### **Notable Moments**

- **National Spotlight**:

- St. Vincent-St. Mary became the first high school team to have games **nationally televised on ESPN** (2002–03 season).

- LeBron graced the cover of *Sports Illustrated* as a junior (February 2002) with the headline: *"The Chosen One."*

- **Historic Games**:

- **2003 Title Game**: Scored 25 points in his final high school game, leading the Fighting Irish to a 40–36 win over Kettering Alter.

- **Slam Dunk Contest**: Won the 2003 McDonald’s All-American Slam Dunk Contest.

---

### **NBA Draft & Legacy**

- **2003 NBA Draft**: Selected **1st overall** by the Cleveland Cavaliers, becoming the **most hyped prep-to-pro prospect** since Kobe Bryant.

- **Impact**: His dominance at St. Vincent-St. Mary redefined the visibility of high school basketball, paving the way for media coverage and endorsement deals for future stars.

---

### **Fun Facts**

- **Jersey Numbers**: Wore **#32** in high school (later switched to #23 in the NBA as a tribute to Michael Jordan).

- **Team Nickname**: The "Fighting Irish" is the mascot of St. Vincent-St. Mary, **not to be confused** with the University of Notre Dame’s teams.

- **Facility**: The school’s gymnasium was renamed **"LeBron James Arena"** in 2003.

---

**Legacy**:

LeBron’s high school career remains one of the most storied in basketball history. His blend of athleticism, skill, and leadership at St. Vincent-St. Mary solidified his status as a once-in-a-generation talent, foreshadowing his NBA superstardom.

🏀 *For highlights, search "LeBron James high school mixtapes" on YouTube or visit the* **St. Vincent-St. Mary Athletics Hall of Fame.**