LeBron and Bronny James made history as the first father-son pair to play together in the NBA when they took the court during the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener.
Coach JJ Redick introduced them with four minutes remaining in the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves, with the Lakers leading 51-35. The sell-out crowd erupted in cheers as the duo was supported by Ken Griffey Sr. and Jr., who made their own MLB history with the Seattle Mariners in 1990-91.
After the Lakers’ 110-103 victory, LeBron spoke to NBA on TNT, reflecting on the significance of the moment: “Family comes first, always. I’ve sacrificed a lot due to my commitments to this league, missing my son’s and daughter’s important moments. To have this chance to still be working and alongside my son is one of the greatest gifts I’ve received, and I’m going to make the most of it.”
Bronny, 20, was drafted by the Lakers as a second-round pick in June after playing at the University of Southern California. He previously shared the court with LeBron in a preseason game against the Phoenix Suns.
Bronny shared his excitement, saying, “Walking up to that scorers’ table with my dad and checking in for the first time was an unforgettable moment. I’m so thankful for everything. I’ve been given an incredible chance to enter this league, improve daily, and learn constantly.”
LeBron, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, a four-time champion, and 20-time All-Star, had watched his son, Bronny, a skilled teenager who joined the Lakers after one year in college. Bronny, who faced a cardiac arrest on the court at age 18 and underwent open-heart surgery, had a shortened freshman season. LeBron has been vocal about supporting his son’s career and expressed his desire to continue playing in the NBA until he could share the court with him.
Not only were they the first father-son duo to play for the same NBA team, but they also made history as the first to play simultaneously in a game. Before the game, LeBron Sr. had encouraged his son to “play carefree.” Bronny spent just under three minutes on the court, missing a tip-in and a three-pointer, before leaving to another round of applause from the crowd.
LeBron added, “This isn’t something that happens every day — being in this amazing league. There are only 450 of us. You have to earn every moment.” He continued, “I think he gets that. He’s excited about the journey of getting better and becoming the player he wants to be. I’m incredibly proud of him.”
Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal also praised the moment, calling it a “great accomplishment” on NBA on TNT. “I would have loved to see him play more,” Shaq said. “But now, it’s about focusing on improvement. He may not be in the starting lineup or even the second rotation, but he should work to find a place in the flow of the game.”
Shaquille emphasized that while Bronny’s famous last name raises expectations, it’s his work ethic and willingness to learn that will define his career. “I’ve known the kid a long time, and I know he’s dedicated,” Shaq said, wishing him success in his future.