During the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves, there was a brief moment where LeBron and Bronny James checked into the game at the same time. It was a historic moment for this father-son duo.
LeBron and Bronny are now officially the only father-son duo to appear in an NBA game together. Following the Lakers’ win over the Timberwolves on Tuesday night, the league’s all-time leading scorer talked about how this special moment. He told reporters, “That moment, us being at the scorer’s table together and checking in together, something I will never forget.”
While some people criticized the Lakers for “feeding LeBron’s ego,” ESPN insider Brian Windhorst reported Wednesday that JJ Redick’s decision to play Bronny last night could be viewed as a motivational tactic.
“What the Lakers are doing here is trying to get the most out of LeBron,” Windhorst explained. “This is an investment, not just in history, it’s an investment in engaging and energizing your franchise player at age 39. And I think it’s working. LeBron is completely engaged and energized, and I think JJ Redick is making a smart move by totally leaning into this and totally embracing this.”
Windhorst said he’s pretty sure Tuesday night’s historic moment won’t define the 2024-25 season for the Lakers. It will, however, keep LeBron motivated.
Brian Windhorst on the Lakers playing Bronny James: “What the Lakers are doing here is trying to get the most out of LeBron. This is an investment, not just in history, it’s an investment in engaging and energizing your franchise player at age 39. And I think it’s working.” pic.twitter.com/7mpTd3SvGH
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 23, 2024
LeBron certainly brought the energy on Tuesday, throwing down a few ferocious dunks for the Lakers.
As for Bronny, he went 0-for-2 from the field in three minutes of action. He also recorded a rebound.
The Lakers will return to the hardwood this Friday to take on the Phoenix Suns.
It’s unclear if Bronny will receive playing time in the second game of the season.
Related: Bronny James Goes Public With Girlfriend Before Preseason Debut