LeBron James says he will pick Bronny's USC debut over Lakers

Field Level Media|published: Fri 1st December, 11:37 2023

Feb 7, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) celebrates with his son Bronny James after breaking the all-time scoring record in the third quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Crypto.com Arena. credits: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James said he will be in the stands when his son makes his college debut for Southern California, even if it means he needs to miss a game with his Los Angeles Lakers teammates.

Bronny James, 19, has been sidelined from his freshman season at USC since going into cardiac arrest during a preseason practice on July 24. He was cleared to return to play on Thursday.

"I already told my teammates that if they play on the same day we're playing, I'm going to have to catch them the next game," James said Thursday night after the Lakers' 133-110 loss to the Thunder in Oklahoma City. "Family over everything ... But definitely got to see Bronny's first game whenever he's cleared and ready to go."

Bronny James is the oldest of the family's three children. No date has been given for his Trojans debut.

"Bronny will have a final evaluation with USC staff this week, resume practice next week, and return to games soon after," a family spokesperson said Thursday.

Upcoming, the Lakers and Trojans both are in action on Dec. 28, Dec. 30 and Jan. 3.

On Dec. 30, the Lakers play at Minnesota and the Trojans at Oregon State. That will be LeBron James' 39th birthday.

—Field Level Media