When the Los Angeles Lakers tip off in 2024-25, all eyes will be on Bronny James. The former USC Trojans guard will dominate headlines during his rookie season, as he and LeBron James become the first father-son duo in NBA history to play in the same game.
Ahead of an unprecedented season and situation, James inevitably fielded questions at Media Day about how he's preparing for his rookie campaign alongside his legendary father.
LeBron James is preparing for a historic season on multiple fronts, as he'll soon tie Vince Carter for the most seasons played in NBA history at 22. As his father chases records, Bronny James will begin his own journey as he looks to carve out a role in JJ Redick's rotation.
During his appearance at Media Day, the younger James was inevitably asked about what he most looks forward to as it pertains to playing with his dad—and provided an answer in the form of a double-edged sword.
"I think I'm most looking forward to practice. Just going head to head with each other, that's such a crazy feeling to be in practice with your dad and competing at a high level. But on the other side of that, having to go against LeBron James is kind of a lot in practice every day."
It's going to be a tense environment as the Lakers look to reestablish themselves as contenders and push themselves to James' level of excellence—even more so with Bronny James present.
Bronny James both looks forward to, dreads practicing against LeBron
The younger James is still just 19 years of age, having played just one season in college at USC. He was a McDonald's All-American in high school, however, and has garnered praise for his work ethic and willingness to set practical expectations.
Approaching the 2024 NBA Draft, James revealed that his ambition is to earn a place in the rotation as a defensive-minded player.
With a firm commitment to the less glamorous path to success, James has positioned himself to become a coach's favorite. He's realistic about what he hopes to accomplish and has thus set himself on a path toward NBA minutes.
If he's going to truly prove himself, however, then there will be no greater barometer for his readiness than how he fares when practicing against his father
LeBron James will turn 40 in December, but he's also coming off of an All-NBA Third Team season. The elder James also won the Olympics MVP award after leading Team USA to a gold medal at the 2024 Summer Games in Paris.
With this in mind, any player who can perform at a high enough level to warrant sharing the court with James during an actual NBA game will have proven themselves to some degree.
Bronny James will have tall tasks in practice beyond playing alongside or against his father, as well. D'Angelo Russell is a former All-Star who can put up points in a hurry, Austin Reaves is a dynamic and well-rounded playmaker, and Gabe Vincent is a proven postseason performer.
If James can step up against James and the Lakers' veteran guards, then the post-draft criticism of the selection will be quickly silenced.