On Sunday, less than five months after experiencing cardiac arrest, Bronny James, the 19-year-old son of NBA star LeBron James, made his NCAA basketball debut.
On Sunday, less than five months after going into cardiac arrest during practice, Bronny James, the 19-year-old son of NBA superstar LeBron James, made his NCAA basketball debut. After coming off the bench in the first half of the University of Southern California’s 84-79 overtime loss against Long Beach State, Bronny James watched the play on his cellphone while his well-known father watched from courtside.
With three rebounds, two assists, two thefts, a block, and two minutes of play, James scored four points. He resumed training with his USC colleagues immediately after receiving medical clearance to resume basketball workouts in November.
Due to his father’s scrutiny, James was a highly sought-after high school talent who decided to play at USC in May. However, after a workout in July, he passed out and spent three days in the hospital. In August, his family disclosed that he had undergone treatment for a congenital cardiac abnormality.
In the post-game interview, Bronny James expressed his gratitude for everything but declined to answer any questions from the media. Thanking his family, his coaches, and the Mayo Clinic personnel for their assistance “during this difficult period in my life,” he expressed gratitude.
The Galen Center in downtown Los Angeles was crowded as LeBron James entered the courtside seats with his daughter Zhuri and son Bryce, a high school basketball player for Sierra Canyon.
After entering the game with 12:58 left in the first half, Bronny James was met with a standing ovation. Though he didn’t score in the first half, he made a big impression with a chase-down block that resembled his well-known father’s style. Once more getting supporters, including his father, up and cheering, he scored his first basket in the second half.
LeBron James stated on Thursday that his son’s comeback to the court meant “everything and more.”
“I can’t wait to see him run out with his teammates,” James added. “Whenever that case may be, it will be a significant event for our family once he logs into the game.
“It’s a big milestone for our family, for sure, and it’s another step for him on his journey in his basketball career.”
The scene was captured on X, formerly Twitter, by Dwyane Wade, who collaborated with LeBron James to win two NBA titles in Miami. “Watching Bronny walk out on that court gave me chills,” Wade wrote on Twitter. “Welcome back to the game you love, Bronny”
Another shout-out came from Phoenix Suns player Kevin Durant, who said, “Welcome back Bronny.”
