LeBron James reveals that his son Bronny James must use a different name on the court despite joining the Lakers together.
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to make NBA history next season with LeBron James and his son, Bronny James, playing together on the same team. This unique father-son duo will face an adjustment not just on the court but also in how they address each other during games and practices.
In a recent episode of Uninterrupted’s “The Shop,” LeBron James discussed a topic that has intrigued fans and analysts alike: how will Bronny address his father while they are teammates?
“He cannot call me dad in the workplace,” LeBron James said.
This straightforward statement highlights the professional boundaries that will define their relationship on the court.
Bronny James, the 19-year-old guard, was selected as the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Lakers. His father, LeBron, is entering his 22nd season with the team. This situation is unprecedented in NBA history as no active father-son pair has played together in the league simultaneously before.
LeBron elaborated on the arrangement, emphasizing that while he will maintain a professional demeanor during games and practices, he will return to his role as a father outside of the court. “Once we leave out the private facility and the gates close, I could be dad again [and] in the car if we ride together, at home I could be dad,” LeBron said. This balance between professional and personal roles is crucial for maintaining a respectful and focused team environment.
The Lakers’ locker room and practice facilities will have specific rules for how Bronny addresses his father. LeBron suggested a few alternatives for his son to use in basketball settings. “He got to call me like ‘2-3’ or ‘Bron’ or, you know, ‘GOAT’ if he want to. It’s up to him.” LeBron’s suggestions reflect his desire to keep the professional atmosphere intact while also allowing some flexibility.
LeBron’s comments highlight the importance of maintaining professionalism in a high-stakes environment. The dynamics between a father and son can be complex, especially when they are both in such a competitive field. The decision to avoid using “dad” during games ensures that both players remain focused on their roles and responsibilities within the team structure.
This new chapter for the James family comes at a significant time for both. LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $104 million contract with the Lakers, which includes a player option for the 2025-26 season and a no-trade clause. His commitment to the team underscores his ongoing dedication to the game and to the franchise that has been a major part of his career.
Meanwhile, Bronny James has signed a four-year, $7.9 million deal with the Lakers, which includes a team option for the final year of his contract. This contract not only marks the beginning of his NBA career but also sets the stage for his development under the guidance of one of the league’s greatest players and his own father.
As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, fans and analysts will be keenly watching how this unique father-son pairing performs. The dynamics of having LeBron and Bronny on the same team promise to add an intriguing layer to the Lakers’ strategy and team chemistry.
The James family’s approach to balancing their personal and professional lives offers valuable insights into managing relationships in high-pressure environments. While LeBron and Bronny will navigate this new territory with care, their mutual respect and commitment to the game will undoubtedly be a cornerstone of their success.
In the end, LeBron James’ clear stance on how his son should address him during professional interactions reinforces the importance of maintaining professionalism while allowing for a strong familial bond outside of work. The upcoming season will be a fascinating one as fans look forward to seeing how the James duo impacts the Lakers and the broader NBA landscape.
