LeBron James passes Kobe Bryant for NBA’s most popular jersey

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LeBron James may not be the most popular guy in the NBA, but he wears the most popular jersey.

James’ No. 6 Miami Heat jersey is the league’s top seller for 2010-11, based on sales on NBAStore.com since the start of the season. The superstar, who switched teams and numbers before the season started, replaces the Lakers’ Kobe Bryant at the top of the list.

Bryant drops to No. 2 after two years on top. James is No. 1 for the first time since his rookie season in 2004.

The Boston Celtics have five players in the top 15, with Rajon Rondo at No. 3 and Shaquille O’Neal, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett taking the 12-15 spots. Amare Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony, both new members of the New York Knicks, are fourth and eighth, respectively.

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-- Chuck Schilken

The Associated Press contributed to this report.