On the brink of an unprecedented moment in sports history, LeBron James and his eldest son, Bronny, are gearing up for what could be a landmark event in the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers' decision to select Bronny as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft positions the James duo to possibly become the first father-son pair to play together in the league. This momentous opportunity isn't just a potential milestone for the James family but also a significant chapter in the annals of sports history.
While the NBA has never witnessed a father-son duo take the court together, other major sports leagues have seen similar historic moments. For instance, in the NFL, Ted and Charlie Nesser were the only father-son duo to have played on the same team. They suited up for the Columbus Panhandles in a game against the Akron World's Champions on September 25, 1921. The Panhandles, which were later rebranded as the Columbus Tigers, remained active until 1926. Adding to their legacy, the Nessers were part of a football family dynasty; six Nesser brothers—John, Paul, Phil, Ted, Frank, and Al—played for the Panhandles at various times in the early 20th century.
In hockey, Gordie Howe, regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, shared the ice with his sons, Mark and Marty. Gordie's second stint in professional hockey was marked by his return to join his sons in the World Hockey Association's Houston Aeros in 1973. Gordie made a seamless transition back to the NHL with the Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 season, contributing 15 goals and 26 assists. The Howe family’s unique experience in professional hockey remains a cherished memory in the sport's rich history.
Baseball also has its own share of father-son legacies. Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. played together for the Seattle Mariners from 1990 to 1991, creating one of baseball's most memorable familial highlights. On September 14, 1990, the Griffeys accomplished a remarkable feat by hitting back-to-back home runs, an unforgettable moment that resonates with fans to this day. In that 1990 season, Ken Griffey Jr. showcased his budding talent by scoring 91 runs, hitting 22 homers, and achieving a .300 batting average.
Similarly, the sport of baseball saw another father-son duo when Tim Raines Sr. and Tim Raines Jr. shared the outfield for the Baltimore Orioles in the latter part of the 2001 season. On October 4, 2001, Tim Raines Sr. was positioned in left field while his son manned center field, etching their names in the annals of baseball history.
The potential NBA debut of Bronny James alongside his father could join this illustrious list of father-son sports collaborations. The NBA has seen several father-son pairs, such as Greg and Cole Anthony, Mychal and Klay Thompson, Bill and Luke Walton, as well as Dell, Steph, and Seth Curry. However, none of these pairs have had the opportunity to play together on the same team during their careers. The James duo stands on the cusp of changing that narrative, adding a new layer of history to the sport.
LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and one of the most influential figures in basketball, has continually expressed his desire to share the NBA floor with his son. Bronny, carrying the weight of familial legacy and immense talent, aims to create his own legacy in the NBA. Their upcoming season could redefine father-son dynamics in professional sports, providing fans with a riveting storyline to follow.
This potential collaboration isn't just about making history; it's about the shared dreams and dedication that define the essence of sports. Should LeBron and Bronny James take the court together, it will be a testament to their skills, perseverance, and the unyielding bond that sports can forge between generations. As the upcoming NBA season approaches, the world watches with bated breath, ready to witness a historic moment that could be etched in the chronicles of basketball forever.