The 2024 NBA Draft brought a historic moment for the James family as Bronny James was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 55th pick. The prospect of playing alongside his father, LeBron James, has captured the attention of basketball fans and media alike. This marks the beginning of Bronny’s professional journey after a single season at USC, and he enters the league with significant attention and expectations.
During his time with the USC Trojans, Bronny James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, shooting 36.6% from the field and 26.7% from beyond the arc in 25 games.
Although his statistics might not have been headline-grabbing, his potential and basketball IQ drew interest from NBA scouts. His selection by the Lakers not only aligns him with one of the most storied franchises in the league but also offers the unique opportunity to share the court with his legendary father.
The chance to play with LeBron James is a dream come true for Bronny, as well as a significant milestone in NBA history. The anticipation surrounding their dynamic on the court is palpable, with many eager to see how the father-son duo will perform together.
Kiyan Anthony, son of NBA veteran Carmelo Anthony and a close friend of Bronny, expressed his excitement and aspirations following the draft. In an interview on “7PM in Brooklyn,” Kiyan shared his thoughts about Bronny’s achievement and what it means for his own future.
“It was fire. Just to know that he started it, and now that I got a chance to like follow, not follow him, but get to where he’s at in the league. That’s fire,” Kiyan said. “I texted him everything. We was on the phone. That’s really fire. Especially him playing with his pops that’s crazy. That’s so crazy to me.”
Currently, Kiyan is entering his senior year at high school and is ranked as the 40th best player in the class of 2025 by ESPN. His talent and hard work have also earned him the title of the top high school player in New York State, as noted by Basketball Forever: “Melo’s son Kiyan Anthony is ranked as the No. 1 high school player in New York State for the class of 2025.”
As Bronny embarks on his rookie season in the NBA, he will have the unique challenge and privilege of playing alongside one of the greatest players in the history of the game, who also happens to be his father. This opportunity will undoubtedly come with its own set of pressures and expectations, but Bronny’s exposure to high-level competition and mentorship from LeBron is expected to be invaluable to his development as a player.
Meanwhile, Kiyan Anthony will be looking to build on his high school success as he prepares for college and potentially following in the footsteps of both his father and Bronny. His journey is being closely watched as he continues to rise through the ranks of high school basketball.
