Many second-generation players have played in the NBA, but before Tuesday, none were the sons of active players.
As the Lakers opened the 2024-25 NBA season, LeBron James first made history by stepping foot on the floor for a record-tying 22nd NBA season. With 4:00 remaining in the second quarter, James made a different kind of history as he and his son, Bronny, became the first father-son duo to share the floor in an NBA game. Even more impressive is that they did it as teammates.
Fans have been anticipating this moment since Bronny James signed his rookie contract with the franchise, but nothing could truly prepare anyone for what it would be like when the two shared the floor.
The historic moment will live forever in NBA lore. Here is how it happened.
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Watch LeBron and Bronny James become first father-son duo to play in NBA game
As expected, Bronny James was subbed into the game in the second quarter, checking in alongside his father. The crowd at Crypto.com Arena has seen two NBA title-clinching games, multiple MVP award ceremonies and countless unforgettable individual performances, but this moment was unlike anything else to have taken place on that floor.
LeBron James.
— NBA (@NBA) October 23, 2024
Bronny James.
The first father-son duo to play together in the NBA! pic.twitter.com/naadFLoPmh
While the duo also shared the floor during the preseason, those exhibition games were merely a precursor for what to expect in an NBA game that counts toward their records and overall stats.
Ahead of their moment as teammates, the two shared a special moment that illustrated the unique father-son bond in their one-of-a-kind workplace.
"Just play carefree"
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) October 23, 2024
LeBron was mic'd up next to Bronny on the bench 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/x3uKYIt6YX
The momentous occasion was treated as such. Ken Griffey and Ken Griffey Jr. were on hand to witness the game from courtside seats. It was a full-circle moment as the Griffeys spent two seasons as teammates with MLB's Seattle Mariners from 1990-91.
The Griffeys are here for LeBron & Bronny in LA! pic.twitter.com/vrTqY0Z8D5
— NBA (@NBA) October 23, 2024
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While LeBron James looks to lead the Lakers back to the postseason for a third consecutive year, Bronny James' focus this season will be developing into a rotational player capable of contributing to LA's efforts on a nightly basis.
While Bronny James' rookie journey will almost certainly consist of ups, downs, DNPs and stints in the NBA G League, he, along with his father, have the distinction of making a unique kind of NBA history on the first night of the 2024-25 season.
