In a moment destined for the record books, LeBron James and his son, Bronny James, made NBA history by becoming the first father-son duo to play together in a regular-season game. The landmark event took place during the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves, marking a significant achievement not only for the James family but for the league as a whole.
LeBron, now in his 22nd NBA season and considered one of the greatest players in the history of basketball, stepped onto the court alongside his 20-year-old son Bronny, who was drafted by the Lakers earlier this year. It was a scene many had anticipated for years, and when the two finally shared the court, the arena erupted in applause.
The special moment came late in the second quarter, as both father and son substituted into the game together. LeBron, a four-time NBA champion and the league’s all-time leading scorer, offered his son some advice before they stepped onto the hardwood. “Just play care-free. Don’t worry about mistakes, just go out there and play hard,” LeBron told Bronny. The younger James nodded in agreement, and with that, they were in the game—officially making history.
Though Bronny only played for about two and a half minutes and missed two shot attempts, he secured a rebound, while his father delivered a more seasoned performance, finishing with 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists. The Lakers went on to secure a 110-103 victory, but for the James family, those few minutes together on the court carried a deeper significance.
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LeBron, reflecting on the historic moment after the game, expressed how much it meant to him to share this experience with his son. “It’s always been family over everything. I’ve missed a lot of moments with my kids because of this game, but to have the opportunity to work alongside my son—it’s a gift,” LeBron said, his emotions clearly visible. He added that the moment felt even more special because his daughter, Zhuri, was also in attendance, celebrating her 10th birthday.
Bronny, still adjusting to the life of an NBA player, called the experience “surreal.” He explained that checking in at the scorer’s table with his dad was something he’ll never forget. “It’s a crazy moment. I’m just extremely grateful,” he said.
The game was also marked by some lighthearted moments, including a playful exchange between the two earlier in the day. LeBron had tweeted a Nike ad showing him filling Bronny’s car with cereal, teasing him with the message, “You better not be late, rook!” Bronny’s response? “You’re too old for this.”
In the stands watching with pride were Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr., the legendary father-son duo who played together in Major League Baseball for the Seattle Mariners in the early 1990s. “We made history, now we get to watch history,” Griffey Jr. said, expressing his excitement for LeBron and Bronny’s achievement.
As the Jameses join the short list of father-son duos who have competed together in major American sports, the moment is not just a milestone for basketball but a testament to the importance of family, legacy, and the shared love of the game.
