LeBron James is set to embark on yet another season with the Los Angeles Lakers, continuing his historic career in the NBA. As James approaches the twilight years of his tenure on the court, one ambitious objective remains—a chance to share the NBA stage with his son, Bronny James.
Though the dream of playing alongside his son looms large, the dynamic between father and son takes a professional turn once they set foot on the court. LeBron has made it clear that traditional father-son dynamics are left behind when it's time to train.
"No, he can't; we already laid that down. Once we leave, out of the practice facility, and the gates close, I could be 'Dad' again, in the car if we ride together. At home, I could be 'Dad.' No, he gotta call me '2-3' or 'Bron,' or 'GOAT' if he wants to. It's up to him. I mean, it's up to him," LeBron said, emphasizing the distinction between their personal and professional relationships.
The Season Ahead
The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a busy month ahead. Media day is scheduled for September 30, setting the stage for the team's pre-season activities. The following day, October 1, marks the official start of training camp, where the squad will begin honing their strategies for the upcoming season.
The Lakers' pre-season action kicks off on October 4 with a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This early encounter will provide a glimpse into the team's preparedness and what fans can expect in the regular season. As if predestined, the Lakers will face the Timberwolves again in their regular-season opener on October 22, a match that promises intensity and excitement.
Family Matters on the Court
LeBron's vision of sharing the court with Bronny brings its own set of challenges, particularly in how they address each other during games and practice. While Bronny is used to the familiar fatherly terms at home, his on-court language has to change.
"We cannot be running down the court, and he'd be like, 'Dad, Push the ball up! Dad, I'm open! Dad, come on!'" LeBron chuckled as he painted a picture of how unconventional it would be to mix family terminology with professional play.
For Bronny, the adjustment to these new norms might be more complex. LeBron acknowledges this but brings his own comfort to the scenario. "It's easy for me because I've been calling him 'Bronny' for so long. It's not like I've been, 'Hey son, hey son.' So it's easy for me. It's gonna be an adjustment for him."
LeBron James: Beyond the Court
Outside the basketball court, LeBron remains a dominant personality in media and entertainment. He is a co-producer of the acclaimed show "The Shop," adding another layer to his multifaceted career. This transition from sports to media highlights his adaptability and far-reaching influence beyond basketball.
As the Lakers prepare for another intense season, the blend of seasoned veterans like LeBron and rising stars like Bronny adds a compelling storyline to the NBA narrative. The legacy is being set, and all eyes will be on how the James duo shapes up both on and off the court.
The new season will not only test the Lakers' championship aspirations but also how a father and son's unique bond can flourish in the highly competitive and scrutinized world of professional basketball.