LeBron James has been more than a basketball icon for years—she’s a mentor, a leader, and, most importantly, a dad. His wish to share an NBA court with his son, Bronny James, was finally granted in the 2024-25 season when they played together for the Los Angeles Lakers. Bronny’s journey to the league, however, has not been smooth sailing. LeBron’s influence and contentious endorsement of his son’s professional career has been controversial, with debate surging on whether Bronny’s path to the NBA was due to merit or a result of his father’s unparalleled legacy.
LeBron James had spoken years ago that among his greatest wishes was to play alongside his son in the NBA. The wish came true when Bronny, who was picked 55th in the 2024 NBA Draft, played alongside his father in the Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The moment was historic as a father and son took the field together in an NBA game for the first time.
While the achievement was greeted as an emotional milestone, it also caused controversy over whether Bronny’s drafting was sentimental or a result of his raw basketball talent. NBA legend Dominique Wilkins chimed in, “LeBron probably had something to do with that.” With LeBron’s power in the league and his four-time MVP, some opined that LeBron’s desire to have his son play alongside him influenced the Lakers to draft Bronny.
Bronny’s Struggles and Comeback
Bronny’s journey to the professional basketball court has not been easy. Bronny had a cardiac arrest on July 24, 2023, while practicing at the University of Southern California as a result of a congenital heart problem. This near-fatal incident put into question whether he would ever return to the court.
Miraculously, Bronny fully recovered and returned to the court, debuting his college career for USC on December 10, 2023. Alas, his freshman year was anything but glamorous. He could not seem to find his rhythm, averaging just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. NBA executives and scouts remained skeptical about his level of preparedness for the pro league, with some arguing that he should have stayed in college to continue working on his craft.
Despite these disappointments, Bronny went on to declare for the NBA Draft, where he was picked late in the second round by the Lakers. Critics noted his modest college production and asked if he would have made it to the NBA otherwise because his father was playing in the league. Others, though, conceded that although his statistics were disappointing, he displayed flashes of promise and defensive potential.
The LeBron Effect: Influence or Opportunity?
LeBron James’ participation in Bronny’s professional career is something that can’t be denied. From early training camps to AAU basketball games, LeBron has been at the center of his son’s growth. His influence is not only felt on the court, as LeBron affects Bronny’s career path in ways that few younger sportspeople receive.
Others believe LeBron’s power in the Lakers organization was part of ensuring Bronny was drafted. As one of the strongest players in the league, LeBron can use his strength to push his son’s opportunity. If so, the Lakers would have given him more playing time. Instead, Bronny has mostly spent his inaugural year developing in the G League, where he has been hot and cold but also occasionally shown flashes of progress.
The Burden of Being LeBron’s Son
One of Bronny’s biggest challenges is not necessarily showing himself to be an NBA player—it’s escaping the gigantic shadow of his dad. The expectations placed on him are maybe more than any second-round pick in recent history. Comparisons to LeBron, pressure to perform, and scrutiny at every turn make his journey especially difficult.
Even though LeBron is still regarded as one of the all-time greatest players, Bronny is trying to create his own identity. The constant debate on whether he truly deserves to be in the league due to his dad provides an added level of difficulty in his coming-of-age.
Conclusion: A Father’s Love vs. NBA Realities
LeBron James’ role in Bronny’s life is inspiring but complicated. As a parent, he did what any parent would do—support and encourage his child. But in the context of the professional basketball world where meritocracy is emphasized, his involvement has been so heavily criticized.
While Bronny’s NBA career is by no means a given, one thing is: he has been given a rare and historic opportunity.
