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Video: Bronny James Reacts to Getting Drafted by LeBron's Lakers at Watch Party

Andrew PetersJune 27, 2024

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 13: Bronny James looks on during the 2024 NBA Combine on May 13, 2024 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images)
Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images

Bronny James had a lifetime goal fulfilled on Thursday when he heard his name called during the NBA draft.

The USC product and son of NBA legend LeBron James appeared to be speechless while celebrating with his friends and family. His younger brother, Bryce, shared the moment the Lakers picked James on social media.

SportsCenter @SportsCenter

Bronny's reaction to getting drafted ❤️ <br><br>(via roccovalenti_/IG) <a href="https://t.co/efZoUMZXJ2">pic.twitter.com/efZoUMZXJ2</a>

The Athletic @TheAthletic

The moment Bronny James was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers 🙌<br><br>🎥 _justbryce/IG <a href="https://t.co/lnaTFSWabB">pic.twitter.com/lnaTFSWabB</a>

James still has a lot of work to do to become an NBA contributor, but he can celebrate the achievement with his loved ones for now.

The Lakers made history by selecting James, as they paired a father and son on an NBA roster for the first time ever. Not only is it the first father and son to play on the same team, it's the first time a father and son have been in the NBA at the same time.

That feat speaks highly to LeBron's impressive longevity. Drafted in 2003, he's the only remaining member of his draft class and he's somehow still playing at a high level. LeBron will be entering his 22nd NBA season in 2024 and is coming off a year where he averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game.

But the question hanging over the Lakers is whether or not LeBron will even be around next year. He has a player option that he can exercise to remain with Los Angeles, or he can opt out to become a free agent. He is reportedly expected to opt out, though it is believed he will re-sign with the Lakers in free agency.

After the Lakers drafted his son, all signs point to LeBron remaining in Los Angeles.

As for Bronny, he'll look to carve his own NBA path alongside his father. He will likely have to spend some time in the G-League early on, but if can find success there he could make his way to the Lakers' roster in his first season.