LeBron and Bronny James Poised to Make NBA History
LeBron James and his son Bronny are on the verge of creating an indelible moment in sports history. The Los Angeles Lakers recently selected LeBron's eldest son, Bronny, as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. This father-son combination, stepping onto the same NBA court, would mark a historic first for the league.
The NBA has seen its share of familial connections gracing the hardwood, but never before has a father played alongside his son in an official game. This potential milestone for LeBron and Bronny evokes memories of similar storied duos in other major sports leagues.
Historic Predecessors in American Sports
In the realm of American football, Ted and Charlie Nesser partnered on the gridiron for the Columbus Panhandles, facing the Akron World's Champions on September 25, 1921. The Panhandles, a team that ultimately rebranded as the Columbus Tigers until their dissolution in 1926, were notable for their Nesser family ties. The team featured six Nesser brothers—John, Paul, Phil, Ted, Frank, and Al—making significant contributions to the game in the early 20th century.
In hockey, the legendary Gordie Howe played alongside his sons Mark and Marty for the Hartford Whalers in the NHL. This unique family affair began when the elder Howe emerged from retirement to play with the World Hockey Association’s Houston Aeros in 1973, where he shared the ice with his sons. Mark Howe notably recorded his first professional goal exactly 27 years after Gordie's inaugural goal with the Detroit Red Wings. The trio transitioned to the NHL's Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 season, with Gordie Howe notching 15 goals and 26 assists.
Baseball, often celebrated for its family connections, also witnessed Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. becoming teammates for the Seattle Mariners between 1990 and 1991. The Griffeys etched their names into the annals of baseball history when they hit back-to-back home runs on September 14, 1990, a feat that's ingrained in Mariners folklore. Ken Griffey Jr. distinguished himself that season with 91 runs, 22 homers, and a .300 batting average.
Similarly, 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 Sr. covered left field while Tim Jr. patrolled center, adding another chapter to the stories of generational athletic excellence.
Father-Son Duos in the NBA
While looking forward to LeBron and Bronny potentially playing together, it’s worth noting that the NBA has a history of family ties influencing its narrative. The league has seen numerous father-son pairs being drafted, though none have teamed up on the floor. Greg and Cole Anthony, Mychal and Klay Thompson, Bill and Luke Walton, and Dell, Steph, and Seth Curry are among the notable father-son combinations who have made their mark, albeit separately.
The Anthony family continues to be a significant presence in basketball. Greg Anthony, a standout guard in his day, has seen his son Cole Anthony make a promising start in the NBA. Similarly, Mychal Thompson, a two-time NBA champion, passed the torch to his son Klay, who has become a pivotal player for the Golden State Warriors, contributing to their multiple championships.
Bill Walton, another legend of the game, witnessed his son Luke Walton carve out a respectable career as both a player and a coach in the NBA. The Curry family has become synonymous with elite shooting, with Dell Curry's sons, Steph and Seth, making significant contributions to the modern game.
Anticipation and Legacy
As the anticipation builds for LeBron and Bronny James to potentially grace the court together, the excitement among fans and analysts is palpable. This opportunity could not only shine a brighter light on Bronny's burgeoning career but also add another illustrious chapter to LeBron's already storied journey.
The NBA has always celebrated its icons, but this unique moment could transcend the sport, resonating with fans across generations. Should they succeed in this unprecedented endeavor, LeBron and Bronny will join an exclusive club of father-son duos who have shared the professional sports stage, forever etching their names into the history books.