LeBron James and his son Bronny are set to become the first father-son duo to play together on the same NBA team, fulfilling a longstanding dream for LeBron. Recently, this dream edged closer to becoming a reality. Bronny, the eldest son of the NBA’s top scorer and four-time champion, was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA draft. Since 2018, LeBron has been a key player for the Lakers. Bronny was chosen with the 55th overall pick in the second round, just as the draft was nearing its conclusion.
Bronny James’ Surprising Draft Strategy and Future Prospects
During the second round of the draft, Rich Paul, who represents both LeBron James and his son Bronny, actively discouraged teams from drafting Bronny by suggesting he would play in Australia if selected. This information was revealed by Bob Myers on ESPN’s draft broadcast. Despite these efforts, Bronny is now set to join Los Angeles. He expressed his gratitude on Instagram, stating he is “beyond blessed.” Adding to the drama, LeBron James is poised to become a free agent soon, potentially leaving the Lakers to play elsewhere.
Anticipating an NBA First: Lakers Eye Historic Father-Son Duo
Rob Pelinka, the General Manager of the Los Angeles Lakers, expressed the potential for a historic moment in the NBA as he spoke about the possibility of LeBron James playing alongside his son, Bronny. Pelinka highlighted the magical prospect of the first father-son duo sharing the NBA court, particularly in Lakers colors. This comes as LeBron faces a decision on his contract option, and the Lakers’ recent draft pick of Bronny James has sparked discussions of this unprecedented scenario.
Despite the excitement, there are no guarantees. Bronny’s presence on the Lakers’ roster next season remains uncertain, as does the chance for both to play in a game together. Historically, about 100 players have followed in their fathers’ NBA footsteps, though typically years after their fathers’ careers ended.
Addressing concerns of nepotism, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski pointed out that the NBA has long been influenced by familial connections across various levels, suggesting that any critique directed at the James family might be misplaced.
LeBron’s remarkable endurance in the league, matching Vince Carter’s record for the longest NBA career at 22 seasons, sets the stage for this potential duo. The official announcement of Bronny’s draft to the Lakers by NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum marks a significant moment, hinting at an NBA first that could see a father and son playing together as teammates.
Bronny James’ NBA Draft Journey and the Spotlight on the 55th Pick
Bronny James, a guard listed at 6ft 4in on USC’s roster but measured at 6ft 1in at the draft combine, may be one of the NBA’s shorter players, yet his athleticism and defensive skills have earned him this opportunity. Rob Pelinka, praising Bronny, highlighted his high character and strong work ethic—key traits the Lakers seek in their players. Despite playing only one college season at USC with modest averages of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists over 25 games, Bronny’s draft journey was notable. He overcame early-season setbacks due to a necessary procedure for a congenital heart defect discovered after a cardiac arrest during a workout. Cleared by doctors for NBA play, Bronny was the 55th pick in the draft, a position that historically hasn’t produced standout NBA stars but has seen exceptions like Patty Mills and potential greats like Nikola Jokić.
