LeBron James is accustomed to being in the spotlight, but as his son Bronny enters the NBA, the elder James is no longer speaking as much for him. LeBron has been the center of attention in the league for years, and every move he does is examined and studied. As Bronny enters the same environment, fans are curious to see how the father-son interaction will develop on the court and questions about his path are bound to arise. However, LeBron has made it clear that he would not be taking his son’s place.
LeBron was questioned on Monday’s media availability regarding Bronny’s initial impressions of the Lakers. The four-time NBA champion took offense at the question and set some boundaries right away. LeBron said, “He’s a grown man, ask him how he’s handling it,” making a distinction between his job as a father and his son’s career. Bronny, who is now a professional athlete in his own right, is more than capable of speaking for himself, the King insisted.
LeBron James chose to direct a Bronny James question today to his son, rather than speak on Bronny’s experiences. “He’s a grown man, ask him how he’s handling it,” James said pic.twitter.com/DNijb8wFtY
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 14, 2024
LeBron’s position serves as a reminder that he values Bronny’s autonomy as a man and a player. Despite not speaking to the media at Monday’s session, the message was unmistakable: Bronny will speak when the time is right, and on his own terms. LeBron is pleased with his son’s accomplishments, but he doesn’t want to take center stage or speak for Bronny.
LeBron has previously stated that Bronny should be treated like any other professional. He said in an August edition of “The Shop” that their relationship within the Lakers organization is solely for business purposes. LeBron grinned and added, “No, he can’t [call me dad],” adding that once they enter the building, everything becomes business as usual.
As the Lakers team gets ready for their NBA debut, LeBron James values Bronny’s individuality
The elder James’ strategy shows that he believes Bronny can handle the NBA by himself. Even though having a father and son on the same team is a unique circumstance, LeBron is concerned about giving Bronny the room he needs to grow as a person. LeBron’s remarks make it plain that the Lakers, an already high-pressure atmosphere, are not the place for parental treatment.
The media, who are keen to hear from both Jameses, may find it difficult to accept LeBron’s choice to let Bronny steer his story. It does, however, support the notion that Bronny is independent and has paved his own route in the league. Despite having the same last name and team, LeBron maintains that the two have had distinct journeys.
Gilbert Arenas says Bronny James is getting criticized more than lottery draft picks in the NBA on Gils Arena pic.twitter.com/Yas0zJBNAq
— 2Cool2Blog (@2Cool2Blog) October 14, 2024
Fans are excited to witness how the James combo will play together on the floor as the Lakers prepare for the next season. Already regarded as one of the best players in history, LeBron now has the extra thrill of perhaps playing alongside his son. Although there is a sense of anticipation, LeBron is focusing on basketball for the time being and letting Bronny go at his own pace.
The Lakers’ opening night and the prospect of witnessing father and son play together for the first time are both very real. LeBron has demonstrated that Bronny will be prepared to face this moment, which has been building for years, on his own terms and in his own words.
