As reported by VIBE, on June 27th, the Los Angeles Lakers made history by selecting Bronny James as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, marking the first time a father-son duo would play in the league simultaneously. Several videos went viral, depicting the James family gathered around the TV at an intimate dinner in New York City. LeBron, Savannah, Bryce, and Gloria James were seen huddled around Bronny as he awaited the draft announcement. Post-selection, Bronny was visibly emotional, wiping away tears as his mother handed him the official Lakers Draft Night hat.
ESPN reported that LeBron led a toast, expressing his deep emotions about the significance of the moment. Following the celebratory moment, Bronny took to his Instagram Story to express his gratitude, typing, "Beyond blessed."
Looking ahead, Lakers' vice president of basketball operations and general manager, Rob Pelinka, acknowledged the potential free agency of LeBron and the team's selection of Bronny. Pelinka highlighted the historic nature of the father-son duo and expressed optimism about the possibility of this unique moment, envisioning a "magical" potential. He emphasized the importance of LeBron's decision and the impact it could have on NBA history in a Lakers uniform.
Additionally, Anthony Davis, LeBron's teammate, recognized the weight of expectations on Bronny, given his father's legacy, but expressed confidence in his abilities.
Davis commended Bronny's defensive prowess, playmaking skills, and determination to carve his own path in the NBA. “He’s very good defensively. He can read the floor very well. I think he’s a really good playmaker,” Davis told ESPN. “But one thing about Bronny, from what I’ve seen and what I heard, he wants to create his own path and he doesn’t want to be — even though he’s LeBron James‘ son, he don’t want to be seen as that. And I think having that mindset and trying to create his own path is going to work out for him. … Who knows, he might come in and be ready to play for us.”
During his lone season with the USC Trojans, Bronny James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in just under 20 minutes per game. His collegiate basketball career was unexpectedly interrupted by a cardiac arrest incident and subsequent surgery to address a congenital heart defect.