Bronny James sends a message to his father after being named a Los Angeles Lakers starter for next season: “You can retire now Dad, I’m ready to carry the league starting next season.”
In a moment that has already begun to reshape the narrative of the NBA, Bronny James, son of all-time great LeBron James, has officially been named a starting player for the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025–26 season. The announcement was shocking to some, symbolic to others, and nothing short of historic for the league. But what truly captured headlines wasn’t just the promotion — it was the message Bronny sent in its wake:
“You can retire now, Dad. I’m ready to carry the league starting next season.”
With that one sentence, Bronny James stepped out from the long shadow cast by his father and into a spotlight of his own making. This wasn’t just about basketball anymore — it was about legacy, timing, and the beginning of a new era in the NBA.
From “LeBron’s Son” to NBA Starter: The Journey of Bronny James
Bronny James has never had the luxury of anonymity. As the son of one of the greatest basketball players in history, every step of his basketball career — from middle school highlights to his college debut — was scrutinized, compared, and debated.
Born in 2004, Bronny began drawing national attention in his early teens, not only because of his lineage but because of his developing game. At Sierra Canyon High School, he showed flashes of elite basketball IQ, perimeter defense, and unselfish playmaking — all while enduring the pressure of living up to the James name.
Then came college. Despite a highly anticipated freshman year at USC, Bronny’s path took an unexpected detour when he suffered a cardiac arrest during a practice in 2023. His future in basketball was thrown into doubt, and more importantly, so was his health.
But he recovered. And when he declared for the NBA Draft in 2024, questions still loomed. Would he be drafted on merit, or because of who his father was? Could he hold his own at the highest level of basketball?
When the Lakers selected him with the 55th overall pick in the second round, some critics scoffed. But what followed would prove that this wasn’t a vanity move for the James family — it was the beginning of something real.
A Rookie Season of Growth and Grit
Bronny’s rookie season wasn’t flashy on the stat sheet. He averaged 2.3 points in 27 games with the Lakers, spending a significant portion of his time with the G League South Bay Lakers. But that’s where he started to shine.
In the G League, Bronny averaged 21.9 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds per game, showing a refined mid-range game, increased strength, and high-level defense. Lakers insiders noted his maturity, his ability to learn quickly, and his relentless work ethic.
Former NBA sharpshooter and now Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised Bronny’s development:
“What we saw was a player who took every challenge personally and met it head-on. Bronny didn’t walk in expecting anything to be handed to him. He earned everything.”
By the end of the season, with the Lakers struggling with injuries and lineup inconsistency, Bronny was getting real minutes — and real results. In a late-season matchup against the Phoenix Suns, he dropped 17 points, including 4 clutch threes and 2 steals, helping the Lakers to a narrow win. It was a turning point.
The Moment: Bronny Named Starter
The official announcement came on June 10, 2025. In a press conference held at the Lakers’ training facility, Coach Redick confirmed what had been whispered for weeks:
“Bronny James will be starting at guard for us next season. He’s earned it. This isn’t symbolic — it’s strategic.”
And with that, the league changed.
Social media exploded. Pundits dissected the implications. But Bronny’s own words stole the show:
“You can retire now, Dad. I’m ready to carry the league starting next season.”
The statement was part tribute, part challenge, and fully confident. For those who know Bronny, it wasn’t a disrespectful dismissal of LeBron’s ongoing legacy — it was a nod to everything LeBron had given, and a promise to carry it forward.
Father and Son: The NBA’s Most Storied Bond
When LeBron James signed a two-year extension with the Lakers in 2024, many believed it was a strategic move to ensure he could play alongside Bronny — the first father-son duo to play together in NBA history.
That moment finally arrived during the 2024–25 season. In their debut together, LeBron threw an alley-oop to Bronny in the second quarter of a home game at Crypto.com Arena. The crowd erupted. The video trended globally. And LeBron, after the game, said:
“That’s the greatest moment of my career. Nothing else comes close.”
But even greatness must yield to time. LeBron will be 41 at the start of next season. While still productive — averaging 18.5 points and 7 assists per game last year — his minutes were down, and wear-and-tear was visible. After a first-round playoff exit, speculation about retirement began to grow.
Now, Bronny’s statement may serve as the catalyst for LeBron’s farewell tour.
A New Face of the Lakers — and the League?
It’s not just about starting for the Lakers. Bronny James stepping into this role represents something broader. For the first time in nearly two decades, the NBA is looking toward a new generation to carry its global brand. Luka Doncic. Victor Wembanyama. Anthony Edwards. And now — Bronny James.
His game, once seen as “safe” or “limited,” is evolving. Scouts describe him as a combo guard with elite instincts, excellent defense, and emerging leadership. He might not put up 35-point triple-doubles, but his efficiency, grit, and intangibles are championship material.
Former teammate Austin Reaves commented:
“You watch Bronny now, and you forget he’s just in his second year. He’s got a calming presence on the floor — and he’s got that fire. You feel it.”
The Future of the Lakers: Bronny’s Team?
With LeBron possibly on the way out and aging veterans like Anthony Davis nearing the tail end of their prime, the Lakers are clearly looking to the future. Bronny represents a bridge — a connection between past glory and future ambition.
GM Rob Pelinka hinted as much:
“Our priority is building a team that can contend now and for the next decade. Bronny’s development is a huge part of that.”
The Lakers have already started shaping the roster around youth and versatility. With Bronny at the point, sophomore wing Maxwell Lewis at the two, and big man Jalen Duren reportedly being targeted in free agency, the pieces are forming.
What’s Next for LeBron?
LeBron has yet to announce his intentions. He holds a $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season. He could return for one final run, possibly mentoring Bronny from the bench or in limited minutes. Or he could walk away, leaving behind an unmatched legacy — and trusting his son to carry the family torch.
Close sources say LeBron was “emotional but proud” after hearing Bronny’s statement.
In a social media post later that night, LeBron simply wrote:
“My boy. My legacy. I see the torch in your hand now. 🔥👑”
This moment — Bronny James being named a starter and boldly declaring his readiness to carry the league — is not just a storyline. It’s the start of a new chapter in basketball history.
Whether he lives up to the incredible expectations remains to be seen. But what’s clear is this: Bronny James is no longer just LeBron’s son. He’s a leader, a starter, and potentially the new face of the NBA.
He’s ready. The question now is — is the league?
