Bronny James, son of NBA legend LeBron James, was selected in the second round of the NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, setting the stage for a potential historic father-son duo on the court.
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The 19-year-old was the 55th overall pick in the draft held in New York on Thursday, following weeks of speculation about his destination.
LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion, is likely entering the final year of his illustrious career and could become a free agent this summer by declining his $51.4 million player option.
Despite this, LeBron has expressed a strong desire to play alongside his son, saying after the 2022 All-Star game that his “last year will be played with my son.”
No father-son pairing has ever played together in the NBA before, making this a potentially groundbreaking moment.
Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka emphasized the significance, stating, “In the history of the NBA, there’s never been a father and a son that have shared an NBA basketball court and that feels like something that could be magical.”
Pelinka also noted the possibility of LeBron staying with the Lakers, adding, “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. And NBA history should be made in a Lakers uniform.”
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Bronny, who completed his first year of college basketball with the University of Southern California Trojans, averaged 4.8 points and 2.1 assists per game. Standing at 6ft 1in, Bronny differs from his 6ft 9in father, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, by focusing more on defense.
Despite being the son of a four-time Most Valuable Player, Bronny has faced challenges, including a cardiac arrest during training last July. He was cleared to return to basketball last November after being diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.
On social media, Bronny expressed his gratitude with the post “Beyond Blessed,” while LeBron shared pictures of the pair with the caption “Legacy.”
Though Bronny is not expected to play a major role for the Lakers in his rookie season, the potential of him sharing the court with his father is already generating significant excitement.
Lakers player Anthony Davis praised Bronny’s skills, saying, “He’s very good defensively. He can read the floor very well. I think he’s a really good playmaker. I think he’s going to be fine, man. Obviously it’s a lot of pressure on him with his dad being who he is.”
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