Tuesday night marked a historic moment in NBA’s 79-year history when father-son duo LeBron James and his eldest son, Bronny, appeared in the same regular season game. During the Los Angeles Lakers’ victorious season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a score of 110-103, the much-anticipated bond occurred 4:00 before the end of the second quarter. The Lakers were leading 51-35, with LeBron having already scored six points with three rebounds.
Bronny’s entrance into the game wasn’t smooth with him quickly giving away a basket to Julius Randle and having his first shot blocked by Rudy Gobert. Despite these initial setbacks, Bronny managed to defend against All-Star Anthony Edwards, causing a missed shot on the Laker’s next defensive turn. On the offensive end, LeBron, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, scored a baseline dunk.
When Bronny went off the court with 1:29 left before halftime, Bronny’s first court experience was greeted with cheer and applause from the audience, who “just witnessed history,” according to the public address announcer. Both LeBron and Bronny relayed their individual experiences, with LeBron stating that the shared moment of checking into the game wouldn’t be forgotten, while Bronny aimed to keep focused on the game despite the historic event taking place.
The game saw Anthony Davis leading with 36 points and 16 rebounds in 37 minutes, with the Timberwolves’ Edwards also scoring 27 points and five 3s. Other performances included LeBron, who scored 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists, and Rui Hachimura, who added 18 points for the Lakers. This game marked JJ Redick’s first win as a coach on the Lakers bench.
The occasion marked the first time that a father and son had appeared in a real game together and the fourth time in modern major American professional sports. Reflecting on the night, LeBron maintained how they still had a job to do despite the excitement, aiming to contribute to the team’s efforts. Moving on from a successful professional career, LeBron is entering his 22nd season, tying with Vince Carter for the most seasons in NBA history.
After a significant surgical procedure, Bronny overcame adversity to play collegiately for the USC Trojans last season. Although a role player, the Lakers granted him a four-year, $7.9 million contract after being selected low in the draft. The NBA’s expectations are for Bronny to shuffle between the league and the G League over the season. The Lakers topped off the special event with a tribute video to the late Jerry West, a celebrated Lakers player and former general manager.
