PALM DESERT, Calif. (AP) — LeBron James, the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, achieved a personal milestone that transcends basketball on Sunday night. For the first time in NBA history, he took the court alongside his son, Bronny James, during a preseason game for the Los Angeles Lakers, marking a significant moment for their family.
As they played against the Phoenix Suns, the father-son duo shared the court for just over four minutes in the second quarter, making this moment not just a historical event but also a cherished family dream come true. “It’s pretty cool for the both of us, and especially for our family,” LeBron said. “It’s definitely a moment that I will never forget.”
Coincidentally, the game coincided with Bronny’s 20th birthday, adding an extra layer of celebration for LeBron, who has often expressed his desire to play alongside his son since Bronny was in high school. “For a father, it means everything,” LeBron reflected. “To have that influence on your kids and be able to work with your son—it’s one of the greatest things a father could ever hope for.”
Bronny, entering the game as a substitute at the beginning of the second quarter, maintained his composure despite the monumental occasion. “I was pretty psyched for that,” he admitted. However, he is also learning to navigate their unique relationship on the court. “When I’m playing, he’s just my teammate. That’s all,” Bronny said, even as he acknowledges the familial bond.
The duo faced a few bumps during their brief time together, with Bronny committing two turnovers and LeBron making one as well. Yet, LeBron’s experience shone through as he hit a three-pointer shortly after. Bronny attempted a three-pointer of his own but missed, leading coach JJ Redick to comment, “I was really hoping that wing 3 would have gone in. That would have been a cool moment.”
After their short stint on the court, LeBron finished the first half with 19 points, five rebounds, and four assists, while Bronny played a total of nine minutes without scoring in the Lakers’ 118-114 loss. LeBron encouraged his son after the game, saying, “Keep getting better. He wants to continue to improve, and that’s what’s most important.”
As LeBron gears up for his record-tying 22nd NBA season and Bronny begins his professional career after being drafted by the Lakers, fans can anticipate more opportunities for the duo to play together. The regular season kicks off on October 22 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the prospect of them playing alongside each other is not just a sporting milestone but a testament to their bond as father and son.
In a world where few fathers and sons have shared professional playing fields, LeBron and Bronny’s journey will undoubtedly be one for the history books, inspiring many as they continue to pursue their dreams together.
