Bronny James, the 20-year-old Lakers guard, has faced more than just the pressure of following in his father’s footsteps during his first months as a professional basketball player.

According to the AP, LeBron James’ eldest son recently shared the ongoing mental health challenges he’s working through following his cardiac arrest in July 2023.

Bronny James opens up about mental health

James, while sharing the spotlight with his father on the Lakers, has struggled to be productive on the court.

Bronny made headlines last year after suffering a cardiac arrest at 19.

“Trying to get past that… It’s difficult, but I’m trying to work at it every day,” Bronny admitted, reflecting on the toll the health scare has taken on his mental well-being.

His sudden collapse during a practice at USC not only disrupted his freshman season but also caused his draft stock to drop significantly.

Originally expected to be a lottery pick, Bronny was ultimately selected 55th overall by the Lakers in the 2024 draft.

Despite the setback, Bronny’s perspective remains optimistic.

“My family, my parents, they are extremely thankful that I’m not only able to play basketball but also just walk around and speak to other people… It’s a blessing to be able to play this sport that I love. There’s a chance I wasn’t going to be able to. So, I wake up, and I’m thankful for that every day.”

Bronny James resilience showcased in the G League

While his NBA debut has been quiet, with modest stats of 0.6 points, 0.1 rebounds, and 0.3 assists, Bronny has shown promise in the G League.

In seven games with the South Bay Lakers, he’s averaged 13.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, including a career-high 30 points on December 12.

“I’m just showing up every day, trying to get better every day, trying to learn every day, and playing my game every day,”Bronny said, emphasizing his focus on continuous improvement.

His recent performances have sparked reactions from fans, with many expressing their support for his journey.

On Saturday, Bronny delivered one of his best games yet, posting 23 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in a close loss to the Cleveland Charge.

His father, LeBron, proudly shared his son’s performance on social media, alongside the unwavering support of his mother, Savannah.

Despite the challenges, Bronny’s resilience on and off the court continues to inspire those following his path.