LeBron James has broken his silence about his son’s NBA success. During the 2024 NBA Draft, LeBron’s son, Bronny James, was selected as the 55th pick by the Los Angeles Lakers. The decision is no doubt a momentous one as it makes them the first father-son duo to play in the NBA. What’s more? They are also playing in the same team.
League deputy commissioner Mark Tatum announced the pick. The 19-year-old is currently studying at the University of Southern California. Bronny, like his famous father, had a stellar collegiate career. Before playing for the USC Trojans, he dominated his high school, Sierra Canyon School, as a four-star prospect. During his only season with the Trojans, he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19.4 minutes per game. Although the eldest James child suffered a cardiac arrest in July 2023, he was cleared medically to be drafted last month. During the combine last month, Bronny shone brightly, finishing as one of the top performers in the 3-point shooting drills.
Lakers general manager Rob Pelinkas released a statement about the draft pick. “In the history of the NBA, there’s never been a father and a son that have shared an NBA basketball court,” he told ESPN.
“That feels like something that could be magical. We know, and have to respect of course, that LeBron has a decision on his opt-out … but if it worked out that he was on our team next season, NBA history could be made.”
LeBron James ‘Emotional’ About Bronny’s NBA Draft Pick
Bronny’s draft pick means a huge deal to his NBA legend father. It is no news that LeBron has publicly voiced his desire to play alongside his son in the NBA. Per sources, the entire James family received the news of the pick during an intimate dinner party in New York. After the announcement, LeBron reportedly led the group in a champagne toast and was “very emotional.” In an Instagram post afterward, the proud father shared a cute throwback photo of him and Bronny courtside. “LEGACY!!!!!! 🤴🏾🤴🏾,” the post was captioned.
Despite LeBron’s wishes coming true, it is not confirmed that he will be playing for the Lakers next season. He still has until Saturday to opt into the final year of his Lakers contract — worth $51.4 million. However, with the potential of Bronny being his teammate, LeBron seems likely to remain behind.
