LeBron James becomes Mattel’s first male athlete ‘Kenbassador’

Published April 9, 2025 3:25pm ET



Mattel unveiled its first male athlete Barbie doll modeled after NBA player LeBron James.

It is the first in a series of planned athlete dolls the toy company calls “Kenbassadors.” Last year, Barbie had nine dolls modeled after female athletes, but James is the first in this year’s series. His doll is dressed in a blue and white letterman’s jacket, without any nod to his current team, the Los Angeles Lakers.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.