It’s official: Bronny James is a Los Angeles Laker.
The Lakers selected James with the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, bringing him one step closer to becoming teammates with his father, LeBron, who has spent each of the last six seasons in purple and gold. And while the story is about the father-son duo’s potential to make history, the elder James has made it a point to ensure the moment is about his son.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the James family watched the NBA Draft in a private, intimate setting in New York, and Bronny’s younger brother Bryce captured the draft moment for his Instagram story.
As reality set in, LeBron James took to Instagram to share a post to commemorate the moment and his son’s achievement.
LAKERS DRAFT BRONNY JAMES
LeBron James Instagram post after Lakers draft Bronny James
While James has built a reputation of being a man of many words on social media, he kept his message very simple after his son’s selection.
“LEGACY!!!!!!” James wrote with two emojis of kings.
Along with the post, James shared four photos and a video, each capturing him and Bronny.
The post is symbolic of the journey as it begins with a photo of a young Bronny seated next to his dad on the Cavaliers bench in 2007. He then fast forwards 17 years later with video and photos of them each completing between-the-legs dunks in 2024.
The final photo, which should ease the minds of any Lakers fans who were concerned, is a photoshop of the father and son in Lakers uniforms.
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While there are formalities regarding LeBron James’ player option for the 2024-25 season, the post could serve as an indication that he plans to remain with Los Angeles for his 22nd NBA season.
The Lakers’ decision to select Bronny was a product of his high character, hard work and an impressive draft workout, according to general manager Rob Pelinka. The chance to pair the two to make them the first active father-son duo in NBA history also proved to be a factor.
Bronny James, who spent one season at USC, will turn 20 in October. LeBron James will turn 40 on Dec. 30.
Knowing the magnitude of the moment, LeBron’s Instagram post could be the first of a few reactions. He will soon see his son formally introduced as an NBA player, sign his first professional contract and make his debut on the NBA’s Summer League stage.
In the lead-up to the first time the two could share the floor, there will be a number of moments that could get a post from the proud dad.