American high school basketball star LeBron James said on Friday he was turning professional, skipping college for what will likely be a top selection in June's National Basketball Association Draft.
The 18-year-old prodigy, whose games for St. Vincent-St. Mary's High have been seen nationwide, is the latest youth to be courted by sponsors and agents as the next Michael Jordan, a status none has yet achieved.
James, a 2.03m forward, is likely to sign a rich shoe sponsorship deal before the June 26 NBA Draft. The NBA Draft Lottery on May 22 will determine which of the clubs that did not qualify for the NBA playoffs will have the coveted first selection of new talent.
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