By Sunday 
In the middle of NBA offseason buzz and speculation, one moment stood out this week for its simplicity and heart: a proud father celebrating his son’s growth. That father, of course, is none other than LeBron James — and the son? Bronny James, the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024 second-round draft pick and rising G League standout.
A Rookie Year With Highlights in South Bay
Bronny’s NBA rookie season may not have lit up the scoreboard in purple and gold — he averaged just 2.3 points across 27 appearances, mostly in garbage time — but his time in the G League told a much more promising story.
Playing with the South Bay Lakers, Bronny looked like a completely different version of himself: confident, explosive, and consistent. In 18 combined appearances between the regular season and Tip-Off Tournament, the 20-year-old guard averaged an impressive 18.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, per G League Stats.
And it gets better. A recent G League Instagram post painted an even brighter picture, showcasing his stat line in wins:
“Bronny James’ rookie year in the G League was ELECTRIC! At just 20 years old, he averaged 21.9 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 5.4 APG last season with the @southbaylakers. In Laker wins, he shot **51% FG, 45% 3PT, and 88% FT. 🤩”
LeBron’s Reaction? Proud Dad Mode: Activated
Never one to miss a big moment for his family, LeBron James quickly re-shared the G League’s post on his Instagram Story — a quiet but powerful show of pride. No long caption, no performative fanfare. Just a father showing love.
This wasn’t about brand or buzz. It was about a dad seeing his son shine. And for someone like LeBron, who’s had cameras on him since high school, that kind of gesture speaks volumes.
A Historic First Season — Even With Growing Pains
Bronny’s first year in the league also came with a dash of history. According to NBA lineup data, the James duo shared the floor in three games, totaling just 10 minutes together. The Lakers were outscored by 14 in that stretch — but the significance goes far beyond the scoreboard.
We’re talking about a father and son sharing the NBA stage. In real time. On real hardwood.
What’s Next for Bronny?
As Bronny enters his first full NBA offseason, expectations remain tempered but hopeful. His flashes of brilliance in the G League are enough to believe he could carve out a meaningful role next season.
And one thing’s for sure: LeBron’s going to be watching — and cheering — every step of the way.