Bronny James has, for the first time, reacted to his father LeBron James' move to the 76ers, ending an eight-year partnership with the Lakers that peaked with a championship win in 2019-20. Contrary to many predictions, the 21-year-old Bronny did not follow his father and will remain with the team that selected him 55th in the 2024 NBA Draft.
It's worth noting that 41-year-old LeBron only announced he wouldn't re-sign with the Los Angeles squad—his decision to join Philadelphia wasn't revealed until weeks later—the day after his son secured a guaranteed contract for the 2026-27 season. His continuity for the upcoming season remains a club option.
Bronny's succinct reaction came during a trip to Slovenia, where he's participating in a mini-camp/get-together organized and funded by the Lakers' new biggest star, Luka Doncic, alongside the rest of the roster. When asked by a fan about LeBron's departure, the young player responded directly: "It doesn't matter, he's my dad."
Over the past two seasons, father and son shared the court in several games, including last season's playoffs, but a reunion on the same team now seems more unlikely. This is especially true as the Lakers appear invested in Bronny's development, with him having worked under coach JJ Redick since the start of his career.
The Los Angeles team's decision not to trade him this preseason reinforces the idea that they see potential in his continued presence, even after his father's departure. Their first on-court reunion is scheduled for Christmas Day, when LeBron James and the 76ers visit the Lakers in LA, followed by another clash in Philadelphia on March 4.
Last Monday, LeBron and Bronny were spotted playing golf with Lakers guard Austin Reaves. Father and son began playing the sport during the 2025-26 preseason and frequently played with other Lakers teammates, especially Reaves, a long-time golfer.
With LeBron's departure, Austin Reaves becomes the longest-tenured player on the Lakers' roster, having arrived in 2021 as an undrafted player on a two-way contract that also allowed him to play in the G League.