LeBron and Bronny James Poised to Make NBA History
LeBron James, already a legend in the world of basketball, is set to add another historical milestone to his illustrious career. His eldest son, Bronny James, was selected as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. If both Jameses step onto the court this coming season, it will be the first time a father-son duo has played together in the NBA, a groundbreaking achievement in professional basketball.
This rare father-son basketball pairing isn't without precedent in the annals of sports history; such familial tandems have enchanted fans across various leagues, creating remarkable moments and unforgettable memories.
NFL’s Unique Duos
In the NFL, Ted and Charlie Nesser remain the only father-son duo to have played on the same team. They took to the field together for the Columbus Panhandles against the Akron World's Champions on September 25, 1921. The Panhandles, which eventually transformed into the Columbus Tigers, were sustained by a legacy of the Nesser family. Remarkably, six Nesser brothers—John, Paul, Phil, Ted, Frank, and Al—played for the Panhandles at various times in the early 20th century.
Howe Family Dominance in Hockey
Hockey aficionados fondly remember the historic moment when Gordie Howe, revered as "Mr. Hockey," graced the ice alongside his sons, Mark and Marty Howe. Their journey began with the Toronto Marlboros in the Ontario Hockey League during the 1972-73 season and continued as Gordie returned to professional hockey to join his sons with the World Hockey Association's Houston Aeros in 1973. A notable milestone occurred when Mark Howe netted his first professional goal exactly 27 years after Gordie's inaugural goal with the Detroit Red Wings. The Howe family trio transitioned to the NHL, playing for the Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 season, where Gordie, even at an advanced age, managed to contribute 15 goals and 26 assists.
Baseball’s Memorable Pairings
In Major League Baseball, the father-son duo of Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. made headlines while playing for the Seattle Mariners between 1990 and 1991. Their shared moments were encapsulated spectacularly when they hit back-to-back home runs on September 14, 1990. Griffey Jr. was particularly outstanding, with a season that saw him score 91 runs, hit 22 homers, and hold a .300 batting average. Another notable pair, Tim Raines Sr. and Tim Raines Jr., showcased their talents for the Baltimore Orioles in the latter part of the 2001 season, sharing the outfield on October 4, 2001. Tim Sr. played in left field, with his son covering center field.
Continuing NBA Legacies
The upcoming season also signifies the addition of LeBron and Bronny James to the esteemed list of NBA father-son duos. This list includes well-known pairs like Greg and Cole Anthony, Mychal and Klay Thompson, Bill and Luke Walton, and the trio of Dell, Steph, and Seth Curry. These legacies continue to enrich the NBA, weaving familial bonds with professional excellence.
As LeBron and Bronny James prepare to potentially share the court, the excitement surrounding this historic event is palpable. It is a testament to LeBron's enduring talent and a prospect for Bronny to carve out his own place in the NBA, all while sharing what might be one of the most significant moments in sports history with his father.