LeBron James shows true Liverpool colours as LA Lakers star makes unmissable NBA gesture
LeBron James pledged his allegiance to Liverpool during his latest public appearance
LeBron James showed his true Liverpool colours during the clash between Los Angeles Lakers' and Indiana Pacers in the NBA. The 40-year-old was spotted on the sidelines at the Crypto.com Arena on Saturday night, where he quickly caught the attention of fans from across the world.
Shortly after Fenway Sports Group bought the Merseyside outfit in 2010, James secured a two percent stake as part of a marketing deal with the Boston-based group, according to The Athletic. At the time, his shares were valued at around $6m (£4.7m).
Then, in 2022, James exchanged his stake in the club for a one percent share in FSG's broader portfolio, which includes the Boston Red Sox (baseball), Pittsburgh Penguins (ice hockey) and RFK Racing (NASCAR). When the LA Lakers' star made the switch, the Mirror claimed his Liverpool shares had risen in value to approximately $45m (£35m).
Despite trading in his shares, James has never hidden his admiration for the club. This weekend, the four-time NBA MVP was spotted sporting a full Liverpool tracksuit, a red cap, and a matching watch.
James has recently embraced a more prominent role in the club's commercial ventures, collaborating with Nike to release two 'LFC x LeBron' merchandise collections in a football and basketball crossover. The fashion pieces were well-received, enjoying great commercial success – which has further strengthened his connection with the Reds.
A few years ago, James sent personalised Liverpool shirts to numerous sports stars in the United States. In a rare, but emotional, pledge of allegiance to the Premier League giant, he wrote: "Nine years ago, I went to my first game at Anfield.
"I'll never forget the feeling of walking through the Shankly Gates, the atmosphere and the fans. It was an adrenaline rush and one of the greatest experiences I've had watching sports.
"Liverpool FC is admired across the world and I've learned firsthand that it's the people who make the community special. Family and community are truly at the heart of everything they do. No matter where they are. It's the Liverpool way.
"They are a family. And having been part of the Nike family for over 18 years, I know how important that is to all of us. Today, I am excited to invite you to celebrate another moment of greatness in their journey - the partnership of Nike and Liverpool FC.
"You're one of the first to receive the kit that hono[u]rs the team and this new chapter. Join me in officially welcoming Liverpool FC to the Nike family. 'By far the greatest team, the world has ever seen... Wear it with pride! Lebron."