LeBron James/ Bronny James/ Lakers/ NBA history/ father-son NBA duo/ Anthony Davis/ Newslooks/ EL SEGUNDO/ Calif./ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ LeBron and Bronny James are on the brink of NBA history, potentially becoming the first father-son duo to play together in a regular season game. Amid scrutiny and questions about Bronny’s role, the Lakers remain supportive, seeing the unique opportunity as a celebration of family and basketball.
LeBron and Bronny Prepare for Historic NBA Season with the Lakers – Quick Looks
- Father-Son Duo: LeBron James is set to play alongside his son Bronny with the Lakers, marking a potential historic first.
- Lakers’ Support: Teammates and the Lakers organization have embraced Bronny, defending him from critics questioning his draft selection.
- Positive Team Dynamic: Teammates like Anthony Davis praise Bronny’s work ethic, particularly his defensive skills, as he adjusts to NBA-level play.
- Expectations and Challenges: New head coach JJ Redick and others are preparing Bronny for NBA pressures while fostering his growth within the team.
LeBron and Bronny James Make NBA History with Lakers
Deep Look
The Los Angeles Lakers are on the verge of making NBA history, as LeBron James and his son Bronny prepare to become the first father-son duo to play together in an NBA regular-season game. Since LeBron first voiced his hope to cap his legendary career by sharing the court with Bronny, fans and analysts alike have anticipated this unique pairing. Now, with Bronny selected in the NBA Draft, the Lakers are fully committed to this historic milestone, seeing it as both a remarkable family achievement and a testament to the Lakers’ legacy of iconic moments.
LeBron, who turns 40 in December, shares that the chance to work with his son on the court brings “a special feeling, a different feeling,” as the two bond over their shared passion. After practices, the two can be seen shooting hoops together alongside teammates, savoring the experience LeBron once only dreamed of. This is the moment LeBron has long envisioned, and his role as both father and mentor is clear in his guidance to Bronny as they navigate this journey together.
Bronny, now 20, has faced his share of public scrutiny as he adjusts to the professional stage. The Lakers faced criticism when they used a draft pick to select Bronny, with some critics suggesting that his spot on the team was influenced by his father’s status rather than his individual skills. Bronny has openly recognized the weight of expectations, but both he and the team have approached the situation with positivity, focused on his growth and potential rather than external opinions.
As the Lakers look to integrate Bronny, head coach JJ Redick acknowledges the challenges Bronny faces, including the added pressure that comes with playing alongside his famous father. “There’s pressure on all of us,” Redick stated, “but the inherent pressure on him is a little different than most second-round picks, most 20-year-olds.” Redick emphasizes the importance of consistency and effort for young players like Bronny, fostering an environment that promotes his development.
Teammates are particularly supportive of Bronny, with Anthony Davis, who has watched Bronny grow up since joining the Lakers in 2019, celebrating the moment as “historic” and “powerful.” Davis’s locker is near Bronny’s, and he speaks highly of the young player’s defense and physicality, calling Bronny “tough” and praising his natural defensive instincts and ability to read the game. Davis acknowledges, however, that Bronny is still adjusting, balancing his potential with the learning curve of playing in the NBA.
The Lakers organization has stood behind the decision to draft Bronny, with General Manager Rob Pelinka citing the opportunity to make sports history as one of the main motivations for bringing him to the team. “The biggest moments in sports happen with the Lakers,” Pelinka stated, reinforcing the team’s dedication to creating memorable and meaningful moments on and off the court.
Bronny’s entry into the NBA wasn’t guaranteed, and many basketball analysts suggest that another year or two of college play might have helped him refine his skills further. Nevertheless, Bronny has impressed Lakers teammates and coaches with his work ethic and willingness to learn, especially in his defensive game. Redick and the coaching staff note that Bronny’s defensive tenacity has stood out since summer league play, even as he adapts to the faster, more physical NBA environment.
Despite concerns that Bronny’s position could potentially disrupt the team’s dynamics, there’s no indication of any discontent among his teammates. Instead, the Lakers’ roster appears fully invested in supporting Bronny as he acclimates, recognizing that he has grown up watching his father’s relentless commitment to excellence. His Lakers teammates view him as a young player with significant potential rather than merely LeBron’s son, as Bronny works to make his own mark on the team.
This season could bring plenty of memorable moments for the James family, especially when they officially step onto the court together. The Lakers, built around LeBron and Anthony Davis, are also set on contending for a championship this season, with the father-son pairing adding another layer of excitement to an already talented team.
As the Lakers embrace the unique opportunity to make history with Bronny, LeBron’s focus remains on supporting his son and enjoying their time together on the court. “For a father, it means everything,” LeBron reflected, highlighting the personal fulfillment that playing alongside Bronny brings. This season promises to be a significant chapter for both father and son as they unite in their shared passion for the game, continuing the legacy of the Lakers as they chase championship dreams and unforgettable moments.
