NBA legend LeBron James and his son, Bronny, made history on Sunday night when they became the first father and son duo to play in an NBA game together, The Associated Press reports.
The momentous occasion unfolded during the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason contest against the Phoenix Suns, with the two sharing the court for a little over four minutes in the second quarter.
The moment was particularly poignant for LeBron, who has spoken about his desire for this opportunity since Bronny was in high school. The four-time NBA champion and 20-time All-Star has often reflected on his own childhood, growing up without a father, and his determination to cherish every milestone with his own children.
“It felt not real,” LeBron described the experience after the game.
The historic moment coincided with Bronny’s 20th birthday, adding another layer of significance to the occasion.
While Bronny maintained a cool demeanor throughout, LeBron has been vocal about his excitement for this shared journey. The two have been preparing for this moment since LeBron returned from the Paris Olympics, scrimmaging together at the Lakers’ training facility.
Despite the excitement, the father-son duo understands that this is just the beginning of their shared journey on the court. Although Bronny is still navigating the complexities of playing alongside his father, the Lakers are set to provide them with more opportunities to showcase their unique dynamic throughout the upcoming season.
The James family’s historic moment adds them to a short list of father-son pairs who have shared playing fields in North American professional sports, including Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. in baseball and Gordie Howe with sons Marty and Mark in hockey.
