For the second straight year, Ohio State football will recognize the greatness of one of their state’s most legendary figures – LeBron James.

James spent most of his early life in Ohio, first discovering the game of basketball at the age of nine in his hometown of Akron. James began to find success in the sport, playing for the Northeast Ohio Shooting Stars and eventually being names Ohio Mr. Basketball. As the cards would fall, James was drafted first overall by his hometown NBA team, the Cleveland Cavaliers. A departure to the Miami Heat left a sour taste in Ohio and it seemed like the super stars suddenly hostile relationship with the state may be fraying, but four years later he would return in a savior-esque way to bring the Cavs their first NBA title in franchise history.

Beyond his on-court accomplishments, James has maintained the role of philanthropist with his home state. This includes partnering his foundation with the University of Akron in efforts to help kids with challenging backgrounds similar to his own, a donation to the tune of $41 million.

Last year, the Buckeyes introduced a custom cleat that blends their school colours with LeBron James markings. The predominately black cleats were a big hit leading the Buckeyes to introduce a second edition – the LeBron Soldier XI. The Buckeyes will don their new kicks when they play Oklahoma on Saturday.

Here’s a look at the cleats from both years.



2016

2017

A cleat fit for a King 👑



Introducing the LeBron Soldier XI cleat. @Nike x @KingJames



On field Sat. 7:30P ET ABC #GoBucks #BeatOklahoma pic.twitter.com/OjsfjEwY5G — Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) September 7, 2017

The LeBron love didn’t stop at the cleats. Urban Meyer, the head coach of the Buckeyes that tried to recruit James in high school, tweeted out a picture of Ohio State players wearing more LeBron Clad apparel.

This @KingJames gear is looking good on the Buckeyes as we land in Bloomington!! pic.twitter.com/s6kpzRBcWw — Urban Meyer (@OSUCoachMeyer) August 30, 2017

The man who has done so much for the State chimed in his appreciation, once again showing his love and dedication to the state of Ohio.

(H/T For The Win)