LeBron James and his son, Bronny James, created a historic moment in NBA history during the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves, becoming the first father-son duo to share the court in an official NBA game. This momentous occasion came with just four minutes left in the first half of the Lakers’ 110-103 victory.
The highly anticipated debut of the James double-act was met with a roaring ovation from the sold-out crowd at the Crypto.com Arena. As LeBron and Bronny stepped onto the court with the Lakers holding a 51-35 lead, fans witnessed a new chapter in basketball history unfold.
The game marked Bronny’s first regular-season appearance for the Lakers after joining the franchise as a second-round draft pick from the University of Southern California in June. This moment came after the father-son duo first shared the court during a preseason game earlier this month against the Phoenix Suns. However, the regular-season debut had added weight, symbolizing a personal milestone for the James family and a significant moment for basketball fans around the world.
LeBron James, 39, who is already cemented as one of the greatest players in NBA history, with four NBA championships and the title of the league’s all-time leading scorer, expressed how much the moment meant to him.
“It’s always been family over everything,” LeBron said in the post-game interview alongside Bronny. “I lost a lot of time because of this league, so to be able to have this moment where I am working still, and I can work alongside my son, it’s one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever got from the man above, and I’m going to take full advantage of it.”
LeBron, who is now in his 22nd NBA season, continues to push the boundaries of longevity and excellence in the league. After the game, he reflected on how special it was to share such an experience with his son, a rare and remarkable occurrence in professional sports.
Bronny, 20, took to the floor for three minutes in the first half. While he missed both of his field-goal attempts, he secured an offensive rebound, showcasing his hustle and determination. For Bronny, it was a surreal moment that will stay with him forever.
“Going up to the scorers’ table and checking in for the first time was a crazy moment I will never forget,” Bronny said. “I’m just extremely grateful for everything. I was given an amazing opportunity to come into this league, get better every day, and learn every day.”
Bronny’s debut may not have filled the stat sheet, but it marked the beginning of a journey in the NBA, one that will undoubtedly evolve as he continues to develop and grow within the league. With his father as both a teammate and mentor, the younger James has a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best players to ever play the game.
LeBron, playing his 22nd season, contributed significantly to the Lakers’ victory, scoring 16 points and grabbing three rebounds in 35 minutes of action. His ability to still dominate games at his age is a testament to his conditioning and basketball IQ. In the first half alone, he tallied eight points and three boards in just 17 minutes of play.
The historic father-son pairing was also witnessed courtside by another iconic duo in sports history: Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. The Griffeys famously played together for the Seattle Mariners in Major League Baseball during the 1990-1991 seasons, becoming the first father-son duo to accomplish such a feat in professional sports. Their presence at the Lakers’ opener only added to the sense of occasion.
LeBron’s continued success and longevity in the NBA have left many wondering when he will decide to retire. He signed a new two-year deal with the Lakers following Bronny’s arrival at the franchise, leaving his career timeline open for speculation. However, LeBron has often hinted that one of his dreams is to play alongside his son, and now that dream has come true.
With this historic milestone achieved, the focus will now shift to what comes next for both LeBron and Bronny. While LeBron is already an established legend, Bronny is just beginning his NBA journey. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how their dynamic evolves on and off the court.
Regardless of what the future holds, this father-son pairing has already made a lasting mark on the sport of basketball. The bond between LeBron and Bronny, both personal and professional, will be one of the most closely followed stories of the NBA season. For LeBron, playing alongside his son is not just a career highlight but a deeply personal achievement—one he will cherish for the rest of his life.
For now, the basketball world can revel in the historical significance of this moment, knowing that it will be remembered for generations to come.
