The historic moment came at the start of the second quarter of the Lakers’ preseason game against the Suns. James Jr., who was celebrating his 20th birthday, checked into the game and joined his father on the court.
It’s common to downplay the significance of preseason games since they don’t count in the official statistical or standings record books. But that doesn’t mean meaningful moments can’t happen.
And the Lakers’ 118-114 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night at Acrisure Arena provided the best example.
When LeBron and Bronny James took the floor together at the start of the second quarter, they made history by becoming the first father and son to play together in an NBA game. And they did it as teammates.
During his pregame news conference, Lakers coach JJ Redick didn’t disclose whether the father and son would play at the same time, saying it would “happen in the flow of a game” and not be “gimmicky”.
And that’s exactly what happened on Sunday.
“It’ll be fun when they’re on the court together,” Redick said pregame. “I’m excited about it. I’m very honored that I get to be part of history.
