Bronny and LeBron James: On the Brink of NBA History
In a move that has sports enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation, Bronny and LeBron James are poised to make NBA history. When the Los Angeles Lakers selected LeBron’s eldest son, Bronny, as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the stage was set for a potentially historic moment. Should they both take to the court in the upcoming season, it will be the first time a father-son duo has played together in the NBA.
This feat is unprecedented in the realm of professional basketball. While the NBA has seen numerous father-son legacies, none have simultaneously shared a roster. This extraordinary event adds another chapter to the illustrious career of LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and one of the league's all-time greats. For the James family, it signifies the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.
Historical Parallels in Other Sports
The concept of family legacies in sports, while emotionally poignant, has rarely translated into father-son teammates in professional leagues. The NFL's only father-son duo, Ted and Charlie Nesser, played for the Columbus Panhandles over a century ago. On September 25, 1921, they took the field together against the Akron World's Champions. The Panhandles, a team that eventually morphed into the Columbus Tigers, saw an extensive involvement from the Nesser family, with brothers John, Paul, Phil, Frank, and Al also donning the team's colors at various times in the early 20th century.
The NHL also witnessed a similar family affair when Gordie Howe, one of the sport's legends, played alongside his sons Mark and Marty for the Hartford Whalers. This union is particularly heartwarming as Gordie made a return to professional hockey with the World Hockey Association's Houston Aeros in 1973 specifically to play with Mark and Marty. The trio transitioned to the NHL's Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 season, where Gordie, even in his early 50s, contributed 15 goals and 26 assists.
Memorable Baseball Duos
Baseball, too, has had its share of magical father-son moments. Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. played together for the Seattle Mariners from 1990 to 1991, marking a particularly memorable chapter in MLB history. Their tenure together was highlighted by a remarkable event on September 14, 1990, when they hit back-to-back home runs, an unprecedented feat for a father and son. Ken Griffey Jr., who had a stellar 1990 season with 91 runs, 22 home runs, and a .300 batting average, solidified his status as one of baseball's most exciting talents.
In another instance, Tim Raines Sr. and Tim Raines Jr. shared the outfield for the Baltimore Orioles in the latter part of the 2001 season. This rare father-son collaboration saw Tim Sr. in left field and Tim Jr. in center field on October 4, 2001, further embellishing the rich tapestry of baseball history with family ties.
NBA's Father-Son Legacies
While Bronny and LeBron James are set to achieve a historical first by playing together, the NBA is no stranger to father-son pairs making their mark across eras. Among the notable duos are Greg and Cole Anthony, Mychal and Klay Thompson, Bill and Luke Walton, and the family trio of Dell, Steph, and Seth Curry. These legacies underscore the influence that sporting excellence and passion can have across generations.
As Bronny and LeBron James approach this potentially groundbreaking season, the basketball world watches with keen interest. The moment they step onto the court together, it will not only be a milestone for the NBA but also a testament to the enduring legacy of family bonds in sports.