Carrie Brown, a middle-school teacher at the private Old Trail School in Ohio, recalls an incident from 2017 when she asked one of her previous students, named Bronny James, to speak to her current sixth-graders about teamwork. Despite his youth, Bronny, who was 13 at that time, delivered a powerful message about the value of team play in competitive sports. Bronny James, who is now 20 years old, is the son of the celebrated basketball player Lebron James. Despite his fame and wealth, Bronny is remembered by his former teachers for his humility and kindness.
Old Trail School is a small institution located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, near Akron, Ohio. Not only was it the educational center for Bronny, but it also served his siblings. Bronny’s mother, Savannah James, was once a board member of the school. When the family moved back to Cleveland in 2014, after LeBron joined the Miami Heat, the James children re-enrolled at Old Trail. Despite the exceptional life led by Bronny, his teachers noted his diligent nature, as demonstrated by his commitment to his homework and creativity in school projects.
Sarah Johnston, the current head of Old Trail School, fondly remembers Bronny’s commitment and participation in school events, sports, and even orchestra activities. Bronny played soccer, basketball, lacrosse, and was part of the school’s orchestra. Despite the pressures of his life outside school, Bronny actively engaged in his school life and was known to exhibit strength of character and maturity beyond his years.
Bronny’s family, especially his father LeBron and mother Savannah, were known to be actively involved with the school. Their presence at school events and evident support for Bronny was an integral part of his time at Old Trail. It was not uncommon to see LeBron at games, cheering for Bronny and his teammates just like any other parent. Savannah was also an engaged parent, regularly interacting with teachers and staff about the children’s progress.
At Old Trail, it was not just academics that Bronny excelled at; he also showed exceptional talent in sports. Whether it was scoring goals in soccer, demonstrating his skills in lacrosse, or showing his prowess in basketball, Bronny made an impact. This included one notable occasion where he led his school’s soccer team to win a league championship in a match that spanned across three overtimes. Many of his former sports coaches were impressed with his natural talent, teamwork, and competitive spirit.
Despite his pedigree, Bronny never let it affect his relationships with his peers and teachers. His character, humility and attitude were greatly admired. His interactions and contribution to the school community are remembered fondly by those who spent time with him, and his former teachers and coaches continue to tell stories about the young leader they remember. The way Bronny carried himself, despite his inherent fame, stands as a testament to his down-to-earth nature and his ability to balance his life as a normal kid and the son of a superstar.
