LeBron James Features on New SLAM Magazine Cover
The 41-year-old NBA veteran stars on the latest issue wearing a Philadelphia 76ers jersey.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Basketball
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LeBron James appears on the cover of SLAM Magazine issue 265 while wearing a Philadelphia 76ers uniform. This marks the 30th time the 41-year-old athlete has graced the cover of the publication.
Why it matters
The cover highlights James latest professional move following his signing of a two-year, $8 million contract with the 76ers. It also marks a rare milestone as he continues a career that has spanned appearances representing five different NBA teams.
The gold metal edition of issue 265 is limited to 94 total copies and has already sold out. Fans can choose between four different cover editions ranging in price from $13.99 for the original to $125 for the gold metal version.
The players
LeBron James
LeBron James is a professional basketball player who has represented five different NBA teams throughout his career.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers are a professional NBA team that signed LeBron James to a two-year contract.
SLAM Magazine
SLAM Magazine is a basketball-focused publication that features professional athletes on its covers.
The details
The orange metal cover edition is available for a limited 48-hour preorder window closing Oct. 21 at 11 a.m. ET. James, who has been named an All-Star 22 times, is featured wearing his No. 23 jersey in the latest publication.
Timeline
2002: LeBron James first appeared on a SLAM cover.
Oct. 21, 2026: Preorder window for orange metal edition closes at 11 a.m. ET.
Nov. 24, 2026: Original cover edition begins shipping.
Season Trajectory
This cover appearance reflects the ongoing media interest in LeBron James throughout his tenure with five different NBA teams. It underscores his longevity as a 22-time All-Star as he integrates into the 76ers roster for the current season.
Collectors have until Oct. 21 at 11 a.m. ET to preorder the $65 orange metal edition online. Following the preorder window, the original cover edition will begin shipping to customers on Nov. 24.
The takeaway
LeBron James continues to be a central figure in sports media 24 years after his first magazine cover appearance. Fans interested in the limited-edition collectibles should act quickly during the remaining preorder window.
Further reading
For more on the latest trends in the league, visit our Basketball section.
Live Poll
Would you pay a premium price for a limited-edition sports magazine featuring your favorite player?
