As a notable athelete such as Lebron James, you want to be recognized and credited for all of your hard work. Obviously companies are going to want to use him, him being a star athlete and a familiar face. Not only that, but some people look up to. I honestly do not think it degrades the image of the athlete, if anything it shows that they are involved and well rounded. They don't just want to do their career get their money and leave it as that. He's an endorcement for nike, beats by dre, dunkin, mcdonalds, gatorade, coca cola products and state farm. Besides that Lebron has co-hosted awards shows and saturday night live. He is an active supporter in the boys and girls club, onexone and childrens defense fund; and has donated money to presidents obamas campaign.
As a celebritiy, it's all about publicity. If you can get it in the right way which many don't, why not. Like I said before; Lebron is not known for doing wrong. He doesn't have sex scandals and he doesn't abuse his spouse. He gets his publicity by not only being an amazing athlete; but also being involved in so many different ways. Theres a possible thing as a celebrity selling themselves short; but in this case not so much. It's important to not have yourself labeled as just an athelete; but as a real person and show what you're passionate about on and off the court.
Heres a commercial sprite put out in support of Lebron switching back to the cavaliers from the heat;
