Lebron James‘ agent, Rich Paul, has announced a significant shift in the future plans involving LeBron and his son Bronny James. Initially, there were plans for the two to potentially play together next season, but this has now changed.
Rich Paul, who represents both LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers and Bronny James, an upcoming NBA draft prospect, clarified that the idea of LeBron and Bronny playing together is no longer a certainty for the 2024 NBA draft.
In an interview with ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, Paul explained that LeBron has reconsidered the necessity of an on-court partnership with his son.
“It’s not a given that LeBron will re-sign if the Lakers draft Bronny at number 55,” Paul stated. “If that was the plan, Bronny would need to be picked much higher.
“We don’t need to use leverage. The Lakers could draft Bronny, but LeBron might not choose to re-sign. Also, the idea of LeBron moving to Phoenix for a minimal contract should be dismissed.”
LeBron James has made his desire to play with his son Bronny before his career is over very public over the years.
In February 2022, James told The Athletic his last year “will be played with my son,” adding that he would “do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year.” James was also involved in a Beats by Dre commercial in October that featured his wife Savannah calling him to offer inspiration.
“Tell them you’re not done till you play with your son,” Savannah said in a voiceover on top of Bronny’s face, before the video flashed to his middle son Bryce. “Then do that again.”
Paul‘s announcement puts to rest much speculation about LeBron and Bronny‘s future. By focusing on Bronny‘s individual growth rather than forcing a father-son partnership, both LeBron and Paul are ensuring that Bronny’s development is prioritized.
As Bronny prepares for the NBA, this carefully planned strategy could benefit his long-term career. LeBron’s decision to separate his career moves from his son’s draft status shows a thoughtful approach to both their futures in professional basketball.
In the upcoming months, the basketball world will closely watch Bronny James as he embarks on his NBA journey, supported by a strategic plan focused on his growth and success.
Over the All-Star break, LeBron was asked about how he wants to end his career.
“I am a Laker. I’ve been very happy being a Laker the last 6 years, and hopefully it stays that way,” James said. “But I don’t have the answer to how long it is, or what uniform I’ll be in. Hopefully it is with the Lakers. It’s a great organization, so many greats. But we’ll see. I don’t know how it’s going to end, but it’s coming.”
The Lakers are notably better statistically with James on the floor than when he sits, so presumably they want the same thing. Whether James’ plans to play Bronny end up fitting in with those desires remains to be seen.
