AKRON, Ohio — LeBron James can add Wheaties box model to his long list of accomplishments.
The Akron native and NBA superstar will be the next athlete to adorn the cover of the iconic cereal box. Those who grace the cover of the “Breakfast of Champions” are reserved for athletes who use their sports platform to make an impact in the community.
Tennis champion Serena Williams is handing the honor off to James.
The box looks different this time. In the background behind James is a collage of kids and families from the LeBron James Family Foundation’s I PROMISE School in Akron.
“Having our students, families and educators on the Wheaties box alongside LeBron is pretty powerful, and it illustrates that deep and meaningful work cannot be done alone,” said Michele Campbell, executive director of the LeBron James Family Foundation, in a news release. “It takes an entire community to truly rally around those that need it most, and it takes a lot of passion and hard work. But it can be done, and we’re humbled to continue pushing the envelope on what’s possible for these families and all communities across the country.”
The I PROMSE School was opened in 2018 that serves the district’s most at-risk students and their entire families.
Growing up in Akron, James was a standout high school player for St. Vincent-St. Mary before being drafted as the #1 overall pick. When times got tough, James said he relied on family, friends and community to lift him up, and it’s through his school he says that he hopes to make the biggest impact.
“Growing up where we come from, to see my I PROMISE kids and families from Akron, Ohio, represented on the iconic Wheaties box means everything,” said James. “The movement we’ve started in Akron is about doing our part to uplift our community by first listening and then responding with the resources they need. We will continue to do everything we can to create a better future for our kids and our community, and it starts with the students, teachers, and everyday champions you see on this box.”
The limited-edition cereal box will roll out on store shelves in the coming weeks.
