The Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener was one for the history books as LeBron James and his son Bronny became the first father-son duo to share the court in an NBA game. The momentous occasion unfolded in front of an electric home crowd, keenly aware they were witnessing the start of an unprecedented basketball legacy.
A Dream Realized
For LeBron, playing alongside Bronny was the realization of a long-held dream. The 39-year-old superstar, who holds the NBA all-time scoring record, had openly spoken about his desire to one day share the court with his son. That aspiration became reality when the Lakers selected Bronny, a talented 20-year-old guard, in the second round of this year’s draft.
“You see the intensity, right? Just play carefree, though. Don’t worry about mistakes. Just go out and play hard.”
– LeBron’s words of encouragement to Bronny before entering the game together
Checking In As Teammates
The historic substitution came with just under four minutes remaining in the second quarter. As LeBron and Bronny checked in together, the Staples Center crowd erupted in applause, recognizing the significance of the moment. On the court, the father-son connection was evident from the start.
While their time playing together was brief – just under three minutes – it provided a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come. Bronny, showing no signs of nerves, pulled down a rebound and put up a confident three-point attempt that narrowly missed. LeBron, ever the leader, continued to guide and encourage his son throughout their shared court time.
Following in Famed Footsteps
LeBron and Bronny’s achievement adds to the small but storied list of father-son duos in professional sports. Courtside for the occasion were Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr., the first father-son pair to play together in Major League Baseball. The two Griffeys, who suited up for the Seattle Mariners in 1990 and 1991, even managed to hit back-to-back home runs in one memorable game.
Other notable father-son teammates include Tim Raines Sr. and Jr. in the MLB, and the Howes – Gordie, Mark, and Marty – who took the ice together in the WHA before a one-season NHL stint with the Hartford Whalers in 1979-80.
A Bright Future Ahead
For the Lakers, Bronny’s addition to the roster represents a promising investment in the future. The young guard, who survived a cardiac arrest scare and subsequent open-heart surgery in 2023, showcased his resilience and determination by returning to the court and impressing in his lone college season at USC.
While minutes may be scarce for Bronny this season on a deep Lakers squad, his development under the tutelage of his father and the Lakers’ coaching staff will be a priority. Spending time honing his skills with the South Bay Lakers in the G League will provide the young James with valuable experience as he adapts to the rigors of professional basketball.
“I grew up a Mariners fan, so I got to see Griffey and then Griffey Sr. But this is different, because LeBron is still a top-five player in the league. This game, man. It’s why we have that TV deal. The storylines and the things that happen like this, it’s an unbelievable story. This is really cool to see.”
– Miami Heat forward Kevin Love on witnessing NBA history
As for LeBron, his 22nd season promises to be as impactful as ever. Coming off a gold medal performance at the Paris Olympics and a Western Conference Finals appearance last season, the elder James shows no signs of slowing down. With Anthony Davis by his side and a re-tooled roster, LeBron’s pursuit of a fifth NBA title remains very much alive.
But beyond the wins and losses, the chance to mentor and play alongside Bronny adds an entirely new dimension to LeBron’s legacy. Together, they have the opportunity to redefine what’s possible for athletic families, inspiring future generations of father-son duos to dream big on the court and off.
As the NBA season unfolds, all eyes will be on the James family and their historic journey. With each shared minute on the hardwood, LeBron and Bronny will be cementing their place in basketball lore, one assist, rebound, and jump shot at a time. It’s a story that transcends sports – a tale of family, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son chasing greatness together.
