LeBron James/ Bronny James/ Lakers/ father-son NBA/ historic moment/ NBA preseason/ Newslooks/ PALM DESERT/ Calif./ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ LeBron James and his son Bronny played together for the first time in the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason game against the Phoenix Suns. Their brief but historic time on the court marked a family milestone and a historic moment in the NBA as they became the league’s first father-son pair to play together.
LeBron and Bronny’s Historic Game: Quick Looks
- Historic Debut: LeBron and Bronny become the NBA’s first father-son duo to play in a game.
- Bronny’s Birthday: The game coincided with Bronny’s 20th birthday, adding to the celebration.
- Team Effort: Although both faced early turnovers, they quickly found their rhythm together.
- Lakers’ Outlook: Coach Redick expects more joint playtime, especially in the regular season.
- Famous Duos: They join elite father-son pairs in sports like Ken Griffey Jr. and Sr. in baseball.
LeBron & Bronny James Make NBA History Together in Preseason Game
Deep Look
LeBron James and his son Bronny made history Sunday night, taking the court together for the Los Angeles Lakers in a preseason game against the Phoenix Suns. The game, held at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, was more than just a sports milestone for LeBron — it was a cherished moment for a father who has dedicated his career to creating memories with his children.
The James duo shared just over four minutes on the court together in the second quarter, marking the first time an NBA father-son duo has played in the same game. The historic moment also happened on Bronny’s 20th birthday, adding to the significance of the night. LeBron, who has expressed his hopes to play alongside Bronny since his son’s high school days, described the experience as surreal. “It’s pretty cool for both of us, and especially for our family. It’s a moment I’ll never forget,” LeBron shared after the game.
On-Court Dynamics and Family Celebration
Bronny, who joined the Lakers as a second-round draft pick this summer, entered the game as a substitute early in the second quarter. Lakers coach JJ Redick had told Bronny before the game that he would have the chance to play alongside his father, a moment both eagerly awaited. Bronny, however, kept his usual calm demeanor, embracing the chance to play as a teammate rather than viewing LeBron as just his dad.
During their minutes together, both players faced early challenges. Bronny committed two turnovers, and LeBron quickly followed suit with another. But as the two got into rhythm, LeBron hit a three-pointer, then set up Bronny for his own three-point attempt, which missed but still energized the crowd. Lakers coach JJ Redick commented, “I was really hoping that wing three would have gone in. That would have been a cool moment. But they’ll have a lot of moments together, I’m sure.”
LeBron’s Legacy and Bronny’s Path Forward
At 39 years old, LeBron is entering his record-tying 22nd NBA season, showcasing his longevity and physical endurance. Bronny, on the other hand, is just starting his NBA journey, having spent only one season at USC before joining the Lakers. Recovering from a cardiac arrest incident over a year ago, Bronny’s performance on Sunday reflects his resilience and dedication. LeBron, who had 19 points, five rebounds, and four assists in the first half, sat out the second half, watching the game from the bench alongside Lakers star Anthony Davis. Meanwhile, Bronny played about nine minutes in the second half, although he didn’t score in the Lakers’ narrow 118-114 loss to the Suns.
“I just told him, ‘Keep getting better,’” LeBron said. “He’s young, and he wants to improve. Every time he’s out there, I just want him to keep learning and making winning plays.”
LeBron’s journey from a young NBA star to playing alongside his son has been deeply personal. Growing up without a father, LeBron has committed to being present and involved in his children’s lives. Reflecting on their shared court time, LeBron emphasized how much it meant to him. “For a father, it means everything,” he said. “To have that influence on your kids and work alongside your son — that’s one of the greatest things a father could ever hope for.”
Bronny’s Future and Lakers’ Strategy
Though Bronny may spend much of the season developing his skills with the South Bay Lakers, the G League affiliate, he will likely have more opportunities to play with LeBron in the regular season, which kicks off on October 22 against Minnesota. Lakers coach JJ Redick has ensured that any future pairings will be “in the flow of the game” and not just for show. Redick acknowledged the importance of the moment, saying, “As a basketball fan, this is incredible to witness. It speaks to LeBron’s longevity and Bronny’s hard work. It’s a proud moment for the whole family.”
The elder James has prepared for this moment since rejoining the Lakers after his Olympic run in Paris, where he won a gold medal. Over the summer, father and son have trained together, scrimmaging as both teammates and opponents in preparation for the upcoming season.
Historic Father-Son Moments in Sports
LeBron and Bronny now join an elite group of father-son duos who have played together in North American professional sports. In baseball, Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. shared the field with the Seattle Mariners during the 1990 and 1991 seasons. In hockey, legendary Gordie Howe skated alongside sons Marty and Mark Howe, both in the World Hockey Association (WHA) and later in the NHL with the Hartford Whalers.
Though Bronny may initially see limited minutes this season, the first time LeBron and Bronny played together marks a unique milestone in both NBA and family history. The James family, supported by wife and mother Savannah, celebrated the moment as a victory that extended beyond the scoreboard.
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