Bronny and LeBron James are on the precipice of rewriting NBA history. The Los Angeles Lakers have selected Bronny, LeBron’s eldest son, as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. This potential pairing on the court is more than a proud moment for the James family; it’s a monumental event for the league.
If they both don the iconic purple and gold this season, it will signify the first instance of a father-son duo playing together in the NBA. This milestone is another testament to LeBron James's enduring legacy and his influence on the game. More importantly, it highlights the new generation of talent emerging within the league.
Historical Comparison
Such a father-son collaboration is not entirely new in the broader sports world but remains a rarity. In the early 20th century, the NFL's Columbus Panhandles witnessed Ted and Charlie Nesser making history by playing together against the Akron World's Champions on September 25, 1921. The team eventually rebranded as the Columbus Tigers and continued until 1926. The Nessers were no ordinary family, as six brothers—John, Paul, Phil, Ted, Frank, and Al—also had stints with the Panhandles during its early years.
The Howe Legacy
In hockey, the legendary Gordie Howe skated alongside his sons Mark and Marty for the NHL's Hartford Whalers. Their story began in the 1972-73 season with the Toronto Marlboros in the Ontario Hockey League. Gordie Howe then made a stunning return to the ice to join his sons in the World Hockey Association's Houston Aeros in 1973. This familial bond extended to the NHL's Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 season. Gordie, even in his later years, contributed 15 goals and 26 assists in that season. Mark Howe emulated his father's achievements, scoring his first professional goal exactly 27 years after Gordie’s first goal with the Detroit Red Wings.
Griffey's Achievements
Baseball too has seen its share of remarkable father-son moments. Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. teamed up for the Seattle Mariners between 1990 and 1991, creating unforgettable memories. One of the most iconic moments came on September 14, 1990, when Ken Griffey Sr. and Jr. hit back-to-back home runs, etching their names into baseball lore. Ken Griffey Jr.'s performance in the 1990 season was stellar, scoring 91 runs, hitting 22 home runs, and maintaining a .300 batting average.
Raines Family Affair
The Baltimore Orioles also enjoyed a unique father-son combination with Tim Raines Sr. and Tim Raines Jr. in the outfield in late 2001. On October 4, 2001, Tim Raines Sr. played in left field while his son took center field, a memory cherished by Orioles fans and baseball enthusiasts alike.
In the NBA, father-son duos have been more frequent, though not on the same court simultaneously. Notable pairs such as Greg and Cole Anthony, Mychal and Klay Thompson, Bill and Luke Walton, and the Curry family—Dell, Steph, and Seth—have all left indelible marks in the league.
LeBron and Bronny James stand poised to join this illustrious list, with the potential to create their unique narrative. As Bronny steps onto the hardwood, guided by the unparalleled experience and wisdom of his father, the forthcoming NBA season holds promise for unforgettable moments and possibly, groundbreaking history. The basketball world will certainly be watching closely, ready to witness what could be the start of a new chapter in sports dynasties.