Five Months Following His Cardiac Arrest, the 19-year-old son of NBA legend LeBron James Performs This
Less than five months after experiencing cardiac arrest, 19-year-old Bronny James, the son of NBA superstar LeBron James, made his collegiate basketball debut on Sunday.
Sunday marked the collegiate basketball debut for Bronny James, the 19-year-old son of NBA superstar LeBron James, who suffered a heart arrest during practice less than five months ago. Bronny James entered the game off the bench in the first half of the University of Southern California’s 84-79 overtime loss against Long Beach State, with his well-known father watching from the sidelines on his iPhone.
James scored four points in 16 minutes of play while grabbing three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block. In November, he received medical clearance to resume basketball workouts, and he soon resumed training with his USC colleagues.
James, a highly regarded high school recruit who was watched carefully due to his father’s background, decided to commit to USC in May. However, he passed out after a workout in July and spent three days in the hospital. His congenital heart problem diagnosis and treatment were disclosed by his family in August.
After the game, Bronny James claimed he was “thankful for everything” but declined to answer any questions from the media. He expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, and the Mayo Clinic personnel for being there for him “during this difficult period in my life.”
LeBron James entered the crowded Galen Center in downtown Los Angeles, escorted by his son Bryce, a high school basketball player for Sierra Canyon, and daughter Zhuri.
With 12:58 left in the first half, Bronny James joined the game and received a standing ovation. Despite missing his lone shot in the half, he caused a stir with a chase-down block reminiscent of his well-known father’s style. His father was among the spectators who cheered as he made his first basket in the second half.
LeBron James had stated on Thursday that his son’s comeback to the floor meant “everything and more.”
“I can’t wait to see him run out with his teammates,” added James. When he logs into the game, whatever the situation, it will mark a significant occasion for our family.
“It’s a big milestone for our family, for sure, and it’s another step for him on his journey in his basketball career.”
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade collaborated to win two NBA titles in Miami. Wade shared the moment on X, a platform that was originally Twitter. “Watching Bronny walk out on that court gave me chills,” Wade wrote on Instagram. “Welcome back to the game you love, Bronny”
Phoenix Suns player Kevin Durant also gave a shout-out, writing, “Welcome back, Bronny.”