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Bron and Bronny Share the Court as King James Reflects on a Special Moment

LeBron and Bronny James made NBA history as the first father-son duo to share the court during the Lakers' win over the Timberwolves, creating an unforgettable moment in their basketball journey. We discuss it here!

 

LeBron & Bronny James talks to Taylor Rooks after the first father son duo in NBA history.

Photo Cred: Harry How/Getty Images

By: Joshua Martin

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has created countless memories over his legendary 22 year NBA career but sharing the court with his son Bronny during Tuesday night’s victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves might be the one that stands out from the rest. LeBron and Bronny became the first father-son duo in NBA history to appear in a game together with 4:00 left in the second quarter. 

“That moment, us being at the scorer’s table together and checking in together, something I will never forget. No matter how old I get, no matter how my memory may fade as I get older or whatever, I will never forget that moment.”
— Lebron James, postgame interview

Bronny, the 55th pick of last year’s draft, said sharing the floor with his dad made playing in his first career NBA game even more memorable. The two of them almost had a moment when Lebron passed the ball to Bronny on the wing for a wide-open three pointer but unfortunately the 20 year old’s jumper did not fall. 

“I tried not to focus on everything that was going on around me and tried to focus on going in as a rookie and not trying to mess up. But yeah, I totally did feel the energy, and I appreciate the Laker Nation for showing the support for me and my dad.”
— Bronny James, postgame interview

Bronny went scoreless in his NBA debut and secured only one rebound, while his dad tallied 16 points, five rebounds and four assists in the victory. Anthony Davis led the way for the Lakers on opening night with 36 points, 16 rebounds and three blocks. 

“This is the first time we had a LeBron moment that was something huge and we won. Every other thing we’ve always lost, so it kind of kills the moment. But it was a special moment for everybody.”
— Anthony Davis, postgame interview 

The Lakers will look to keep the positive momentum going as the season progresses. Their next game is Friday at Crypto.com Arena versus Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns.

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Lakers Draft Bronny James, Creating First Father-Son Duo in NBA History

The Los Angeles made history by selecting Bronny James in the second round of this year’s NBA draft, becoming the first team to potentially have a father-son duo play in the league. We discuss it here!

 
Bronny James

December 15th, 2019: LeBron "Bronny" James Jr. (0) plays in the high school basketball game between St. V. Irish and Sierra Canyon Trailblazers at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH.

Photo Cred: Mark Alberti/1022 Project

By: Joshua Martin

This year’s NBA Draft may go down as one of the most memorable drafts of all time. Not only did we see a plethora of potential stars walk across the stage but in the second round at pick number 55, The Los Angeles Lakers made history. With the 55th selection the Lakers chose Bronny James, making he and Lebron the first father son duo to play in the league simultaneously.

Multiple videos and stills surfaced of Lebron, Savannah, Bryce and LeBron’s mother, Gloria James, huddling around Bronny as he watched his name get called. The former USC Trojan could be seen wiping away tears as his mother handed him his official Lakers Draft Night hat.

Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka spoke on this historical moment

“In the history of the NBA, there’s never been a father and a son that have shared an NBA basketball court and that feels like something that could be magical. We know, and have to respect of course, that LeBron has a decision on his opt-out…but if it worked out that he was on our team next season, NBA history could be made. And NBA history should be made in a Lakers uniform.”
— Rob Pelinka

L.A.’s second superstar Anthony Davis shared similar sentiments. Admitting that Bronny will be fine, highlighting his on court abilities and his willingness to create his own path and not thrive off of the successes of his legendary father. 

“He’s very good defensively. He can read the floor very well. I think he’s a really good playmaker. I saw him work out a couple times besides the [Klutch Sports] pro day and working with a big — his reads, reading the defense, making the right passes — that was really impressive to me. I think he’s going to be fine, man. 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 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.”
— Anthony Davis, ESPN

During Bronny’s short collegiate stint at USC, the guard averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19.4 minutes per game. His playing time and draft stock took a major hit after suffering from a cardiac arrest incident and surgery. His recovery sideland him for almost 5 months, making his basketball career murky at best.  

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LeBron James Expresses Gratitude Amidst Bronny's Medical Emergency

LeBron James expresses gratitude after Bronny's cardiac arrest, while the sports world shows support and love to the James family. We discuss it here!

 
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Bronny James

The James family takes a picture at the 31st annual ESPYS awards held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on July 12, 2023. (Kevin Mazur/ Getty Images)

By: Adonis Armstrong

In his first public statement since Bronny James experienced a cardiac arrest, LeBron James expresses gratitude to everyone who sent well wishes and prayers to his family.

TMZ Sports reported on July 25th that the 18-year-old athlete experienced a medical emergency during a workout at the University of Southern California on the previous day, July 24th. “Medical staff was able to treat Bronny and take him to the hospital. He is now in stable condition and no longer in ICU,” A family spokesperson issued the statement.

In May, Bronny joined the university's basketball team as the No. 19 recruit, and the James family expressed their gratitude to USC's staff while requesting privacy in their initial statement. LeBron mentioned in a recent tweet that they will share further details when they feel comfortable doing so. “I want to thank the countless people sending my family love and prayers,” he captioned. “We feel you, and I’m so grateful. Everyone doing great. We have our family together, safe and healthy, and we feel your love. Will have more to say when we’re ready, but I wanted to tell everyone how much your support has meant to all of us!”

Following the news about Bronny's situation, numerous individuals in the sports world, including Damar Hamlin, extended their love, support, and encouragement to the James family. In a tweet, the Buffalo Bills safety captioned, “Prayers to Bronny and the James family as well. Here for you guys just like you have been for me my entire process.”

We at 247LC are sending the James family all the strength and positivity during this challenging time. Wishing Bronny a swift recovery, and looking forward to seeing you back in action soon.

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Bronny James Commits to USC

Bronny James makes his college decision by committing to USC, igniting a new era of basketball for the Trojans. We discuss it here!

 

December 15th, 2019: LeBron "Bronny" James Jr. (0) during the H.S. basketball game between the St. V. Irish and Sierra Canyon Trailblazers at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH. Mark Alberti/1022

Credit: 1022 Project via Shutterstock

By: Joshua Martin

After much speculation, it's official!! Bronny James Jr., the eldest son of NBA Legend LeBron James, is staying on the West Coast and attending the University of Southern California. 

Bronny wrote in his instagram caption “Fight On ✌🏿 #committed” while dawning his Sierra Canyon High School basketball uniform in the Trojans’ locker room. 

After the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Golden State Warriors in Game 3 of the western conference semifinals, LeBron said in a postgame press conference that his son picked “a great university.”

“Unless it was one of my great-grandmothers or great-grandfathers or someone way before my time, to my knowledge this is the first one out of the James Gang to go to college.”
— LeBron James

Currently James Jr. ranks as a top 5 point guard according to ESPN and as a Trojan, Bronny has a chance to develop his impressive on ball defensive skills, while also honing his scoring ability and playmaking skills.  

Bronny’s decision was interesting to say the least. Especially since the Trojans haven't made it to a Final Four since 1954 and hasn't had a deep tournament run in decades. One could only speculate that the allure of staying close to family and the bright and sandy beaches of SoCal played a major role in his decision. 

Ask yourself. How often has college basketball been the topic of conversation for fans of USC’s athletic program? It’s usually the coliseum for a Trojan football game on saturdays. With Bronny on campus, the buzz around the Galen Center is destined to become a fever pitch.

Unlike most prospects, Bronny’s game has been under the microscope since becoming a rising freshman at Sierra Canyon High School. Initially, many believed his growth was small and incremental but after an impressive performance at this year's McDonald's All American game, the adulation of Bronny’s game has been on the rise. And rightfully so.

The 6-foot-3 athlete has great speed and lateral quickness and the explosiveness that should transition nicely to the college game. A pure shooting stroke with range and the mental capacity to out-think opponents at the amateur level.  

USC’s basketball program has been buried behind the dominance of its cross town rival UCLA with its 11 National Championships over 60 seasons. The Trojans have had their moments but even the best USC teams can't hold a candle to the squads that dominated the sport during the Wooden era. We are now living in a new reality. As of now, Bronny provides USC with the sort of glitz and glamor it has never had. 

Opting to avoid traditional blue blood programs, it's obvious Bronny wants to be a part of history. If the Trojans are successful next season, Bronny could help snap a 70 year Final Four drought, a 39 year PAC 12 title drought and it's been 53 years since USC finished in the top 5. 

“Obviously, his dad didn’t go to school. His mom didn’t go to college. It’s super cool. … USC is getting a great kid. He’s there to play basketball, [but] they’re going to be super surprised at how great a kid he is, even though they’ve been recruiting him for a while.”
— LeBron James

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Like Father Like Son Bronny James Shines in the McDonald's All American Game

Bronny James Jr. impresses at McDonald's All American Game with LeBron James in attendance. We discuss it here!

 
Bronny James and LeBron James

Bronny James and Lebron James

Alex Birens De Haan via Getty Images

By: Joshua Martin

The McDonald's All American Game is an annual event that hosts some of the best highschool seniors from across the country. Every year highly touted prospects showcase their skills  with hopes of making the same impact on the March Madness stage as soon as next year. 

This year’s game had the basketball world buzzing, as fans in attendance and those watching from home got a chance to see some of the game’s future stars.

Sierra Canyon High School (California) was well represented on both sides - Judea Watkins scored 25 points and led the West ladies squad to a 110 - 102 victory over the East -  with many in attendance eager to see Bronny James Jr., son of the NBA’s all time leading scorer and Los Angeles Lakers superstar Lebron James. 

Talk about a full circle moment! 20 years after his first appearance Lebron was in the building to support his son.

LeBron James in the McDonald’s All American game (2003)

Garrett Ellwood via Getty Images

Despite receiving some scrutiny about whether or not he deserved to be on the squad, Bronny left no doubt that he has a legitimate game and the poise to handle the pressures of being the son of “King James”. On the biggest stage Bronny delivered!

The 6’3” guard displayed his impressive stroke from deep, draining 5-for-8 totaling 15 points in the East’s 109 - 106 victory over the West. Social media attendees showered Bronny with praise pinpointing his feel for the game. 

Despite not officially declaring to a school, many believe he will sign with Ohio State University with USC and Oregon also in the running. The real question is will he make it to the NBA? 

What the scouts are saying??

From what I can gather, he isn’t the second coming of his dad but he does possess solid size to become a capable combo guard with elite defensive potential. He has a smooth jump shot, a vocal leader with tremendous work ethic with an incredible feel for the game.

Lebron James and Bronny James

Bronny James and Lebron

Joe Robbins via Getty Images

There is no secret that Lebron wants to play with his son. Back in 2022 Lebron told the Athletic so in an interview, insinuating he will be willing to take a lower salary to make it possible. 

“My last year will be played with my son. Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be. I would do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year. It’s not about the money at that point.” - The Athletic 

It is very rare that father son duos even appear in the league let alone play together. Lebron doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon with his Lakers fighting for their lives in the uber competitive Western conference. 

With all we've seen from Goat James, we shouldn’t be surprised if he accomplished something that has never been seen. So far so good. Bronny can play… 

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High School Elite: 5 Must Know Basketball Prospects from the 2023 Rising Junior Class

The high school basketball class of 2023 is arguably one of the most exciting recruiting classes of this era! We take a look at 5 prospects you need to know!

 
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Bronny James at Sierra Canyon High School

Bronny James at Sierra Canyon High School

By: Baigen Seawell

As basketball season comes to a close for high school, it’s fitting to revisit the scouting report as it applies to arguably one of the most exciting recruiting classes of this era: The Class of 2023. 

This class features the likes of Bronny James, Mikey Williams and more. The level of skill and talent seen in this particular prospect group makes me excited for the future of basketball at the collegiate level. And while it may be too early to predict where some of these prospects may land, it’s never too early to review their style of play and existing offers to see how they fare for the future. 

1. Mikey Williams (Lake Norman Christian, San Diego CA)

Williams is one of the most well known and highly publicized athletes in the class of 2023. A 6’2” combo guard who hails from San Diego, Williams landed in North Carolina where he’s flourishing with Lake Norman Christian. Williams is quick, agile and is known to get above the rim and put on a show with his dunks and crafty layups. 

Outside of his vertical, he’s not afraid to shoot around the field. As a combo guard, he’s been seen to take the opportunity in the field when the opportunity presents itself. He has received offers from numerous HBCUs such as Hampton, Howard, and Alabama State, along with offers from Arizona, UCLA and more. 

2. DJ Wagner (Camden HS, Camden NJ)

Wagner is one of the unanimous prospects amongst recruiting sites with a number one ranking. A 5-star athlete, the 6’3” recruit, Wagner gave up football to pursue basketball in high school. The point guard is a righty, but is seen to handle the ball comfortably with his left. Wagner is also a quick release shooter around the field.

To add, this is a family affair as DJ’s father is Dajuan Wagner, who was a first round pick for the Cavs in 2002. His grandfather is Milt Wagner, who played for Louisville and at the professional level as well. They all attended Camden, where DJ is currently playing for, and he looks to keep the legacy going. He has eyes on him from Kentucky and Penn State. 

3. Bronny James (Sierra Canyon HS, Cleveland OH)

Another NBA legacy, Bronny James is no surprise for anyone when you bring up the Class of 2023. James sits at 6’2” playing at the combo guard position, where his style of play is reminiscent of his father. Despite all of the love everywhere else, he hasn’t been generating a lot of love on the recruiting sites.

As of 2/15, James sits at 25 on the ESPN Top 25 and 19 on 247Sports. This doesn’t deter the attention he’s been receiving from schools like UNC, Duke, UCLA and a slew of other powerhouse programs. He still has a few more years to make a dent in the high school realm, and his signing will arguably be one of the most highly regarded, regardless of the school he chooses. 

4. Baye Fall (Lutheran HS, Denver CO)

Fall is one to watch for, as he comes into the recruiting class as a 6’11” center. Fall traveled from Senegal to pursue basketball and has quickly moved up the ranks residing in the number 6 spot (ESPN). He’s been compared to Marcus Camby, but scouts don’t want to pin his style to a player so early in his career.

Fall is not as refined in skill as other prospects on his list, but he’s in good standing for the long run. His size will be a great asset for any team, and he’ll bulk up as he progresses through his basketball career. He’s received offers from Georgia, Georgetown, Minnesota and Kansas and has eyes from plenty of programs across the country. 

5. Isaiah Collier (Wheeler HS, Marietta GA)

Collier is a hidden gem in the Class of ‘23. He quietly sits at 15 on the ESPN Top 25 and 15 on 247Sports. He’s a true point guard who’s able to scan the floor and play unselfishly when handling the ball. He shows great chemistry with his teammates as he comes off of a 2020 State Championship his freshman year with Wheeler. 

Wheeler is also no stranger to creating NBA prospects, their most recent being Jaylen Brown of the Celtics. While Collier has a few years left to make a decision, he’s racked up offers from Florida, Ole Miss and Texas Tech. As he progresses, I trust that his price will go up and his demand will be highly regarded amongst D1 institutions.

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