LeBron James
Credentials: USA Today High School basketball Player of the Year; led his school to Ohio state championship.

Past ESPY's: none.

Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR
Credentials: Finished 5th in 2002 Winston Cup standings, won three races, and finished in top ten 21 times.

Past ESPY's: none

Yao Ming, Rockets
Credentials: Averaged 13.5 ppg. and 8.2 rpg. as a rookie in 2002-03 season.

Past ESPY's: none

Clinton Portis, Broncos
Credentials: Rushed for 1,508 yards and 15 touchdowns as a rookie in 2002.

Past ESPY's: none

Alfonso Soriano, Yankees
Credentials: Set AL single-season record for home runs by a second baseman (39) in 2002.

Past ESPY's: none