The dream of LeBron James, one of the greatest basketball players in history, has always been to share the NBA court with his son, Bronny. As the 2024-2025 NBA season began, that dream inched closer to reality. Fans have long speculated about the possibility, and the moment arrived during the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. While the story of LeBron’s career has been written in the annals of NBA history, a new chapter was about to begin with his son.
Bronny James, 20, had made his way to the league after being drafted in the second round by the Lakers. His path to the NBA was marked by both anticipation and the pressure of being LeBron’s son. After one season at USC, Bronny declared for the NBA draft, and while his college stats-averaging 4.8 points per game-didn’t scream superstardom, his potential was evident. Many had their eyes on the young player, wondering if he could carry the weight of the James legacy into his professional career.
Bronny James makes a stylish entrance at Lakers’ NBA season opener
On Tuesday night, that question was answered, as Bronny took the court with just 4:00 left in the second quarter. With the Crypto.com Arena buzzing, LeBron and Bronny made history as the first father-son duo to ever play in an NBA game together. For LeBron, a player who’s won championships, MVPs, and shattered countless records, this moment might stand as one of his most significant.
The road to this point wasn’t easy for Bronny. His struggles in the preseason, where he averaged 4.2 points on just 29.7% shooting, raised doubts. Yet, in the Lakers’ preseason finale, he showed flashes of his potential, scoring 17 points and making it clear that he was finding his rhythm. This game against the Timberwolves wasn’t just about history-it was about proving that Bronny belongs in the league.
The significance of this moment wasn’t lost on LeBron either. In a shootaround earlier that day, LeBron reflected on the possibility of sharing the court with his son. “Whenever it happens, it will happen,”LeBron said. “But it’s been a treat… just bringing him up to speed on what this professional life is all about.” It was clear that LeBron was relishing the chance to mentor his son, not just as a father but as a teammate.
A night of legends: Griffey duo witnesses the James legacy unite on NBA’s biggest stage
Adding to the night’s excitement, Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr., the only father-son duo to play together in Major League Baseball, were in attendance. The Griffeys’ presence highlighted the rarity of such a moment in professional sports. Bronny acknowledged this unique situation, stating, “It’s going to be insane… Only two families to do it, so it’s going to be a crazy experience.”
As the game unfolded, it became clear that this wasn’t just about a passing moment of history. Bronny’s presence on the court symbolized a generational shift. While LeBron continues to defy age and expectations, his son is stepping into his own, forging a path that might one day place him among the greats. But for now, it was a night to celebrate the bond between father and son.
The Lakers’ season opener became more than just a game-it was a symbol of legacy, of family, and of the unbreakable ties that basketball can create. The James family had officially made history, and fans across the world will forever remember the night they witnessed two generations share the court. LeBron and Bronny, side by side, representing both the present and the future of the game.
As the season progresses, the basketball world will eagerly watch how this partnership unfolds. But on that unforgettable night, the scoreboard wasn’t the story-it was the bond between a father and son that captured the hearts of millions.
