Last July, Bronny James, LeBron’s oldest son, made headlines after suffering cardiac arrest while training with the University of South Carolina basketball team. Only five months after that scare, The 19-year-old returned to the court making his college basketball debut in the duel against Long Beach State this Sunday.
Before the eyes of his father – who enjoyed the game in the front row – the first-born of the NBA legend played 16 minutes of play, in which contributed with 4 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 1 block. However, that was not enough to prevent his team from losing 84-79 in overtime.
The young James had a debut that lived up to expectations, in which he could be seen more than recovered physically and showing off with a triple on the move.
“I just want to say that I’m grateful for everything“Bronny said at a press conference once the match was over. The young man thanked Mayo Clinic for helping him recover, as well as his family, coaches and teammates for their company during such a difficult time.
“I just want to say I’m thankful for everything… my parents, siblings for supporting me through this hard time in my life. I just want to give appreciation to everyone who’s helped me.”
Bronny James after his first game with USC 🙏
(via @BenGolliver)pic.twitter.com/vzAcgduLiX
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 11, 2023
The point guard, who is considered one of the best players of his generation, suffered cardiac arrest in July and tests he underwent detected a congenital heart defect. Doctors considered the problem to be “anatomically and functionally significant,” but it could be treated. For this reason, and after a long recovery process, Bronny received the go-ahead to return to the courts.
LeBron’s emotional message after his son’s debut
After witnessing the debut of his son in the front row, LeBron – who a day ago became champion of the NBA Cup with the Lakers – He made an emotional post on his Instagram account, where he showed all his pride and admiration for Bronny..
“I can’t even tell you how emotional today was for me! I am literally exhausted and all I can say is: Bronny, You are just amazing! Damn the wins and losses that will occur. You have already won the definitive championship and that is life! Proud of you little one and today you have given me more life! Thank you and I love you“wrote the star of the Los Angeles franchise on his social networks.
The 38-year-old has already commented in the past on his interest in sharing the court with his son during the end of his career. “I will play my last year with my son. Wherever Bronny is, there I will be. I would do anything to play with my son for a year. It’s not about the money…“said the four-time NBA champion a few months ago.
One day before Bronny’s debut, LeBron became champion of the first edition of the NBA In-Season Tournament, after having beaten the Indiana Pacers 123 to 109 in the tournament final. King was chosen as the MVP of the competition and added a new title to his record, which includes the record for the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, four championship rings (2012, 2013, 2016 and 2020) and two Olympic golds (2008 and 2012).