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The Miami Heat may be entering the NBA playoffs as a second seed, but they’re tops in another set of standings. For the sixth time, LeBron James’ jersey was the top seller in the league. The Miami Heat, meanwhile, sold more merchandise this season than any other team.
“It means a lot to know that I have so many fans that want to wear my jersey because they respect the way I play the game and respect who I am as a man,” James told USA Today. “Thanks so much to all that ‘Strive for Greatness.'”
The rankings are based on sales from NBAStore.com through out the regular season. LeBron also topped the list last year. Coming in just behind however was the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Kevin Durant. It’s the highest LeBron’s MVP rival has ever been on the list. Kobe Bryant, despite barely playing this season, came in third.
Meanwhile, Dwyane Wade was the only other Heat player on the list. He came in at an impressive 7th. Considering he hasn’t switched teams or number once in his career, that’s still a lot of people out there eager to buy his jersey who don’t already have one hanging in their closet.
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The Heat were only one of three teams with more than one player in top 15. The Clipper’s Chris Paul and Blake Griffin also made the list at 8 and 11 respectively. Durant’s OKC teammate Russell Westbrook also made the list at 12.
Considering James and Wade’s top ten placement, it’s probably not a surprise the Heat also sold the most merchandise of any team. They were followed by the Lakers, Bulls, Thunder and Knicks.
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