Bronny James, now in his second season with the Los Angeles Lakers, spoke on March 28 about a memorable one-on-one basketball game with his father, LeBron James. After the Lakers’ win against the Brooklyn Nets, Bronny joked to reporters that he once beat LeBron during a game at their house in Miami.
The story highlights the unique dynamic between Bronny and his father as teammates on the Lakers. Having an NBA legend as a parent gives Bronny an unusual perspective and opportunity to learn firsthand what it takes to succeed in professional basketball.
“The last time I played [LeBron] 1-on-1 – I don’t know if this story came out – but he broke a backboard at our house in Miami,” Bronny said. Austin Reaves, who was nearby during the interview, asked if it was because Bronny won. When Bronny nodded yes, Reaves replied: “Yeahhh! You can say that. Don’t leave that out!”
According to Bronny’s comments, this event happened when LeBron was playing for the Miami Heat and Bronny was still a child. Despite being early in his own career and still developing confidence on and off the court, Bronny has embraced learning from veteran players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves alongside his father.
Head coach JJ Redick has noted improvements in Bronny’s play this season. In particular, after returning from a six-game road trip where the Lakers went 5-1, Redick said that “the Lakers needed him against the Pacers,” referencing key baskets made by Bronny during Indiana’s fourth-quarter comeback attempt.
As this season comes to an end, next year will be important for Bronny as he aims to secure a regular spot in Redick’s rotation.
