LeBron James is preparing for another season with the Los Angeles Lakers, and this year brings added excitement with his son, Bronny James, inching closer to potentially joining him in the NBA. LeBron's ambition to play alongside Bronny has become more tangible, and their dynamic on the court is set to challenge traditional father-son roles.
Father-Son Dynamics on the Court
LeBron has made it clear that when he and Bronny are on the court together, typical father-son interactions are left behind. "No, he can't; we already laid that down. Once we leave, out of the practice facility, and the gates close, I could be 'Dad' again, in the car if we ride together. At home, I could be 'Dad.' No, he gotta call me '2-3' or 'Bron,' or 'GOAT' if he wants to. It's up to him. I mean, it's up to him," says LeBron, emphasizing the professional boundaries they maintain during practice.
For Bronny, the transition from calling his father familiar terms at home to addressing him differently on the court might take some getting used to. LeBron humorously pointed out, "We cannot be running down the court, and he'd be like, 'Dad, Push the ball up! Dad, I'm open! Dad, come on!'" Clearly, the respect for the professional environment is paramount for both Jameses.
However, LeBron finds it simpler to refer to his son by his widely known nickname. "It's easy for me because I've been calling him 'Bronny' for so long. It's not like I've been, 'Hey son, hey son.' So it's easy for me. It's gonna be an adjustment for him," he explained.
Season Preparations
As the Lakers gear up for a promising season, key dates mark significant milestones for the team. The Los Angeles Lakers media day is scheduled for September 30, offering a preview of the team's readiness and objectives. Training camp kicks off on October 1, where foundational drills and strategic planning will be crucial to their success.
Preseason action begins on October 4 with an exciting matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling season. This game serves as a precursor to the regular-season opener on October 22, where the Lakers will once again face the Timberwolves, this time with stakes that count toward their standing.
Beyond Basketball
LeBron's impact extends beyond the basketball court. He is a co-producer of the show "The Shop," where he explores various cultural, social, and personal topics with a wide range of guests. This venture showcases his versatility and commitment to using his platform to influence positive change.
As the new season approaches, fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of seeing LeBron and Bronny share the court. Their unique relationship, coupled with their individual talents, holds the potential to bring a new dynamic to the NBA. For LeBron, the focus remains on maintaining professional decorum on the court while enjoying the father-son bond off the court.
The 2023 season is setting up to be memorable not only for the Lakers but for the broader basketball community. The boundaries and ambitions of the James family continue to push the envelope, inspiring future generations of athletes.