Sophia Michaels
Bronny James Jr., known as Bronny, made NBA history when he was chosen as the 55th pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2024 NBA draft. His father, basketball legend LeBron James Sr., is reportedly extending his contract with the Lakers, making them the first active father-son duo in the league. James Sr. expressed his desire to play alongside his son in an interview with The Athletic, stating, “My last year will be played with my son. Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be.”
While James Sr. was focused on teaming up with his son, Bronny had a different perspective. At his debut Lakers press conference, he mentioned that playing with his dad was not his primary goal and that he aimed to carve his own path despite the inevitable comparisons. Bronny emphasized that he had dealt with such expectations all his life.
Bronny’s journey to the Lakers may be overshadowed by his father’s success, but his transformation into a Laker is nothing short of remarkable. Read on to discover how Bronny has forged his own identity over the years.
Early Years and Introduction to Basketball
Born on October 6, 2004, to LeBron and Savannah James, Bronny’s early years were spent in Akron, Ohio, where he began playing basketball at just 4 years old. Enrolled at the Ed Davis Community Center, Bronny displayed exceptional skills for his age. His then-coach, Danyelle Love, acknowledged his talent and understanding of the game at a young age, foreseeing his future success.
The James family’s focus on sports led to the introduction of basketball to their second child, Bryce James, in 2007. LeBron Sr. restricted his sons to playing basketball, soccer, and baseball, prohibiting them from participating in football or hockey, as revealed in a 2014 interview with ESPN.
Stellar Performance with the Miami City Ballers
During his time with the Miami City Ballers, Bronny James stood out as a rising basketball star, reaching the top of the national player rankings for fourth graders by Middle School Elite in 2014. Recognized for his skills, Bronny was praised by Miami City Ballers CEO Alex Garcia for his exceptional performance on the court and his ability to excel in crucial game moments.
By early 2015, Bronny had garnered interest from several colleges, receiving offers at a young age. LeBron Sr. expressed his mixed feelings about the attention his son was attracting, emphasizing that recruiting such young players should be discouraged.
Bronny James’ Success on the Basketball Court
Bronny James has made a mark on the basketball court by winning various championships early in his career. His victories include leading the North Coast Blue Chips to a USBA title in 2016 and securing a win against Drive Nation in 2018. Additionally, his skills helped Old Trail School triumph in the ISL Tournament in 2018.
Bronny continued his success by excelling in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) and leading the North Coast Blue Chips to victory at the LA Classic Tournament in 2019. His exceptional passing abilities and three-point shooting were instrumental in these wins.
Educational Journey at Crossroads School
Bronny James enrolled at Crossroads School in Santa Monica in 2018 when his family relocated to California following LeBron James Sr.’s deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. He made his debut on the basketball team, showcasing his talent on the court while wearing his father’s iconic No. 23 jersey.
His performance in games like the one against Culver City Middle School demonstrated his potential as a player, earning his team a significant victory.
Transition to Sierra Canyon and Sporting Achievements
In 2019, Bronny James joined Sierra Canyon for high school, where he continued his basketball journey. Playing alongside his friend Zaire Wade, Bronny made notable contributions to the team’s victories, including an impressive win against St. Vincent-St. Mary High School.
His achievements on the court were supported by his family and earned him praise, particularly from his father, LeBron James Sr., highlighting Bronny’s remarkable performance.
Partnership with FaZe Clan
In August 2020, Bronny James became the brand ambassador for FaZe Clan, a prominent e-sports gaming team.
The transformation of Bronny James within FaZe Clan was discussed by FaZe Clan founder FaZe Banks in an interview with TMZ Sports. The contract with James was informal, focusing more on his involvement in FaZe Clan rather than formal agreements. Banks praised James’ Fortnite gaming skills and highlighted the competitive nature of athletes in the realm of e-sports. Bronny’s collaboration led to a significant increase in his social media following, with a remarkable surge in Twitch followers.
In 2023, James showcased his “Call of Duty: Warzone” loadout on FaZe Clan’s YouTube channel, demonstrating a strong partnership. However, in April 2024, Banks disclosed that James had been removed from the collaboration, indicating that it felt unnatural and disingenuous due to James’ focus on pursuing a career in the NBA.
Bronny James first graced the cover of Sports Illustrated as a member of FaZe Clan in July 2021. The cover featured a gaming scene with FaZe Clan members, including Bronny and quarterback Kyler Murray. In October 2022, he appeared on the cover again, this time alongside his father, LeBron James Sr., and brother, Bryce James, symbolizing a passing of the basketball legacy from father to sons.
Bronny James signed major endorsement deals with notable brands. He became the brand ambassador for PSD Underwear in February 2022 and secured partnerships with Nike alongside other athletes. Following his father’s footsteps, who has a long-standing relationship with Nike, Bronny expressed his excitement about continuing his family’s legacy with the brand.
Additionally, Bronny secured a significant deal with Beats by Dre, marking the first collaboration between the company and a high school athlete. The partnership included a video ad featuring Bronny and James Sr. engaging in a friendly basketball competition while showcasing Beats by Dre earpieces.
Recognized for his basketball prowess, Bronny James was named to the McDonald’s All-American roster, highlighting his talent and potential in the sport.1. **Bronny James’ Impressive High School Career**
At Sierra Canyon during his senior year, Bronny James showcased his skills as a four-star prospect, averaging 13.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.8 steals. He secured a spot on the McDonald’s All-American 2023 roster, playing for the West team alongside notable recruits like Andrej Stojakovic.
2. **Commitment to the University of Southern California**
Initially undecided on his college choice, Bronny received speculations about joining the Oregon Ducks. However, he eventually committed to the University of Southern California Trojans, breaking a family tradition by being the first to attend college. This decision was announced through an Instagram post in the team’s locker room.
3. **Recovery from a Health Scare at USC**
Soon after joining USC, Bronny encountered a cardiac arrest during practice in July 2023. Thankfully, he received prompt medical attention and was stabilized. Following a congenital heart defect diagnosis, he made a full recovery and returned to the court for the Trojans.
4. **Transition to the Los Angeles Lakers**
Bronny made a significant career move by departing USC and aiming to enter the NBA draft. He signed on with the Los Angeles Lakers after intense summer training to prove his capabilities. Despite a slow start in the NBA Summer League, Bronny’s dedication and potential hint at a promising future in basketball.
