-
Dave McMenamin, ESPN Staff Writer
LeBron James’ excitement for his son Bronny’s college basketball debut supersedes that for the Los Angeles Lakers. He announced his willingness to miss a Lakers game to catch his son’s debut for the USC Trojans. After the Lakers’ 133-110 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, James expressed that “Family over everything … But definitely got to see Bronny’s first game whenever he’s cleared and ready to go.”
Despite the Lakers finishing their road trip 2-2 with a loss, James’ spirit was high as it was announced that Bronny had been cleared by doctors for a full return to basketball with USC.
Bronny, a 19-year-old freshman, suffered a cardiac arrest during a team workout in July and had successful surgery to repair a likely congenital heart defect. Despite not having appeared in a game for the 5-2 Trojans, Bronny’s clearance for a return to the court was a cause for celebration.
Although Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell expressed dismay about James potentially missing a Lakers game, Davis assured reporters that James had the full support of the team. Bronny will have a final evaluation by the USC staff this week, with plans to begin practicing next week and return to games soon after, according to a James family spokesperson.
There are several upcoming dates in the next two months where the teams’ schedules overlap:
Dec. 28 — Lakers vs. Charlotte Hornets; USC at Oregon
Dec. 30 — Lakers at Minnesota Timberwolves; USC at Oregon State
Jan. 3 — Lakers vs. Miami Heat; USC vs. California
Jan. 13 — Lakers at Utah Jazz; USC at Colorado
Jan. 17 — Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks; USC at Arizona
Jan. 27 — Lakers at Golden State Warriors; USC vs. UCLA
James expressed pride and excitement for Bronny’s progression, while the Lakers continue to face challenges due to injuries. Lakers coach Darvin Ham reiterated the importance of the bigger picture for the team, acknowledging their aspirations for the season. “It’s amazing, man,” Ham said. “I’m so happy for him and their family.”
