Phelps to get special honor from SI at ceremony

NEW YORK (AP) - Although LeBron James is getting Sports Illustrated's Sportsperson of the Year award, Michael Phelps' phenomenal year won't go unrecognized at an event next week that will celebrate both athletes.

The recently retired swimmer and most decorated Olympian will get a special honor at Monday's event at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

"I am honored to be a part of this event recognizing some of the world's greatest athletes, past and present. I look forward to the SI Sportsperson celebration to cap off what has been a truly memorable year for me, and for the sports world at large," Phelps said Wednesday.

Comedian JB Smoove will host the event.

Others being honored include football legend Jim Brown and basketball great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, recently honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.