LeBron James Supports Son Bronny in NBA Preseason Debut for LA Lakers

LeBron James Supports Son Bronny

Bronny James Makes NBA Preseason Debut with LeBron James Cheering from the Bench

LeBron James observed proudly from the bench as his son, Bronny James, took to the court for his first NBA preseason game with the LA Lakers on Friday. The 19-year-old guard logged 16 minutes during the Lakers’ 124-107 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves, showcasing flashes of his potential despite finishing with just two points.

Bronny entered the game in the second quarter, playing the entire first half and most of the fourth. After struggling with his shot early on and missing his first five attempts, he finally scored a layup with under a minute left, earning a warm cheer from the fans at Acrisure Arena.

While his shooting wasn't as sharp as he'd hoped, the 6-foot-2 rookie made an impact defensively, recording three blocks, one rebound, and one assist. Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised Bronny's unique defensive abilities, saying, "He can do some things defensively at his size that are really unique, and I think he can become a disruptive defender. Offensively, he’s still figuring things out, but he’s easy to coach and has great energy."

Redick chose to rest LeBron for this matchup, but the 39-year-old superstar may return for the Lakers' next game against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday—coincidentally, Bronny's 20th birthday.

Selected 55th overall by the Lakers in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny wears “James Jr.” on the back of his jersey, marking a historic moment as they are poised to be the first father-son duo to play together in the NBA. Reflecting on this milestone, LeBron expressed his overwhelming pride in his son's journey.

“I’m just at a loss for words,” he said during a recent Lakers media event with Bronny by his side. “Seeing him grow and knowing what he’s overcome motivates him every day to reach his goals.”

LeBron James Supports Son Bronny in NBA Preseason Debut for LA Lakers