Bronny James has a standout memory of his father, LeBron James, that he cherishes deeply. This unforgettable moment is tied to a historic event in the NBA, where the father-son duo made waves by playing together on the court. Nearly a year after their groundbreaking appearance, Bronny reflects on this experience as a pivotal highlight in his budding basketball career.
On October 22, 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Minnesota Timberwolves in their season opener. This game was particularly special as it marked the first time in NBA history that a father and son played as teammates. The atmosphere was electric, with over 19,000 fans in attendance, all witnessing a moment that was once a dream for many basketball enthusiasts.
“It was nuts,” Bronny recalled in a recent chat with golfer Grant Horvat. “It was a crazy experience to be a part of. I wasn’t shaking; I mean, I was ready to go play. But it’s different when your dad’s on the team and you got expectations from the Lakers. I’m a basketball head, so it was fun to just be out there and step on an NBA court.”
While Bronny did not score any points or register assists during that game, his father LeBron made significant contributions with 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists, leading the Lakers to a 110-103 victory. For Bronny, however, the significance of the moment transcended the box score. It was about the legacy and the bond they shared on that historic night.
As Bronny prepares for the upcoming NBA season, he has shown remarkable growth since that game. The past year has been transformative for him, as he navigated the challenges of balancing time between the NBA and the G League. Entering the 2025 Summer League, expectations were high, and Bronny did not disappoint.
According to the Orange County Register, the 20-year-old displayed newfound confidence and assurance compared to his earlier professional outings in 2024. He averaged 11.5 points, 2.7 assists, 2.3 rebounds, and a steal across six games, including two in the California Classic and four in Las Vegas. His performance in Las Vegas was particularly impressive, where he averaged 14.2 points with a shooting percentage of 47.6%, showcasing his ability to adapt and improve.
Coaches have noted Bronny’s enhanced conditioning and his willingness to embrace physical play, which were key focuses during his offseason training. However, his three-point shooting remains a critical area for development. During the summer league, he managed only 29.6% from beyond the arc. Analysts believe that if he fails to improve his long-range shooting, he may only reach the level of an energetic role player. Conversely, significant improvement in this area could elevate him to a starting position.
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, both Bronny and LeBron are ready to shift their focus back to basketball. The memory of their shared moment on the court continues to fuel Bronny’s passion and determination. With the potential for both players to contribute to the Lakers’ success, fans are left wondering if they can bring a championship back to the Crypto.com Arena.
As Bronny James embarks on this new chapter in his career, the legacy of his first game alongside his father remains a source of inspiration. The journey ahead is filled with challenges and opportunities, and Bronny is poised to make his mark in the NBA, carrying forward the legacy of the James family.