Lakers defeat Timberwolves in season opener as Bronny James makes history: Live reaction and updates
LOS ANGELES — The James family made history Tuesday night with the patriarch, LeBron James, and his eldest son, Bronny, appearing in the same regular-season game, marking the first time a father-son duo shared the court in the NBA’s 79-year existence.
In the 2024-25 season opener, where the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 110-103, the big moment happened with 4:00 left in the second quarter when both LeBron and Bronny emerged from the bench together to check into the game.
The Lakers were ahead 51-35 at the time and LeBron already scored six points with three rebounds. The father and son peeled off their warmup jerseys after approaching the scorer’s table for a stint that lasted 2:31.
“I was wondering during the dead ball why everyone was cheering so loud, and then I realized what was happening,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said. “We were feeling out the game, and it was going to be towards the end of the first half, and the game presented an opportunity for (Bronny) to get some minutes.”
Bronny gave up a quick basket to Julius Randle, had his first shot blocked by reigning Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert and then attempted a shot on a pass from, who else, LeBron, with about 1:40 left before halftime but missed. Bronny guarded All-Star Anthony Edwards and forced a missed shot on the Lakers’ next defensive possession.
During their brief time together, LeBron, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, crushed a baseline dunk in front of Ken Griffey Sr. and Jr., who know a thing or two about famous father-son duos.
“You ready? Just play care free… go out and play hard.”
Year 22 with a bit of advice for Year 1. pic.twitter.com/g5Trgujjzt
— NBA (@NBA) October 23, 2024
When Bronny subbed out with 1:29 before halftime, Los Angeles public address announcer Lawrence Tanter called attention to what just happened, telling the sold-out crowd it had “just witnessed history.”
“That moment, us being at the scorer’s table together and checking in together is something I will never forget,” LeBron said. “No matter how old I get, no matter how my memory may fade as I get older or whatever, I will never forget that moment.”
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(Photo: Frederic J. Brown / AFP via Getty Images)