LeBron James floated the dream of playing in the NBA alongside one of his sons a few years ago, and now it’s closer to reality. Bronny James, the oldest son of the NBA’s all-time scoring leader and four-time champion, was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers. The team that his father has played for since 2018 picked Bronny James with the No. 55 overall pick in the deep second round of this year’s draft.
The move adds intrigue as LeBron James can become a free agent next week, potentially leaving the Lakers. While the draft selection doesn’t guarantee that father and son will play together or that Bronny James will be on the Lakers’ roster next season, it raises the exciting possibility of an NBA first—a father-son on-court duo in the league simultaneously as players.
LeBron James’ remarkable longevity in the NBA, nearing his 22nd season, makes this father-son duo possible. The official announcement of Bronny James joining the Lakers was made by NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum during the draft ceremony.
Bronny James, a guard, played college basketball at USC where he showed promise despite his height. After overcoming a congenital heart defect and receiving clearance from doctors for NBA play, he seized the opportunity to enter the draft.
While 24 players were picked ahead of Bronny James on Day 2 of the draft, his selection at No. 55 garnered significant attention. Historically, the 55th pick seldom becomes a standout player, with current Heat guard Patty Mills being one of the best selections at that spot.
Despite the odds stacked against No. 55 picks becoming major NBA stars, Bronny James aims to make his mark and potentially play alongside his father in the world’s premier basketball league.