Keeping up with the Jameses.
Bronny James' arrival in the professional game has sent the NBA world into a frenzy. The incoming rookie, taken No. 55 overall by the Lakers franchise which employs his famous father, is destined to be the most talked-about second-rounder in NBA history. Much of that discourse revolves around his pops, all-time leading scorer LeBron James, who many believe is implicated in spearheading his arrival into the City of Angels.
Perhaps that is true, making what appeared to be a Hallmark-like story into a contrived publicity stunt. It doesn't matter all that much, however. We'll all be watching regardless.
'Bron and Bronny aren't the only ones in their bloodline seeking basketball greatness. LeBron James' youngest son, Bryce, shares similar ambitions. Much like his older brother, Bryce is making waves at Sierra Canyon, garnering interest from college basketball programs at a tender age.
Some believe Bryce James could be the next hoops prodigy to emerge from the James family.
Could Bryce play with Bronny? Quite possibly, assuming he continues plodding forth on the same basketball trajectory. Could he play with his father? Not so likely, says the youngest brother.
"I'm not gonna lie, that's OD," Bryce responded when an Instagram user asked him whether he thinks his dad would last long enough to see Bryce make the league. "Nah, that's too much. No, Good Lord. He's going to be 42."
Bryce is but a high schooler, while his father is approaching 40. It's understandable why the teenager is doubtful about his father's willingness to keep playing basketball for much longer.
Call it pragmatism. Call it pessimism. However you slice it, Bryce James' declaration could offer a glimpse into James' future tidings as he readies for the next stage of his hardwood life.
MORE: Tracking the latest LeBron James free agency rumors
How old is Bryce James?
Bryce James is just 17, having been born on June 14, 2007, to mother, Savannah, and father, LeBron.
The teenager has shown glimpses of NBA-level talent, climbing up the ladder to earn distinction as the No. 22-ranked talent in the state of California, according to ESPN. At 6-4, Bryce has NBA-ready size and athleticism. His potential has come to surface during matchups across the AAU circuit, posting averages of 8.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, one assist, 0.5 steals, and 0.5 blocks in four games on Nike EYBL Peach Jam for Strive for Greatness 16U.
When he transitioned to Nike EYBL, he recorded 7.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists a game over the course of 13 games.
How old is LeBron James?
LeBron James is 39, with his 40th birthday rapidly approaching. He'll turn 40 on Dec. 30, 2024.
'Bron was the oldest player in the league this past year, outpacing Taj Gibson, Chris Paul, and P.J. Tucker for first place on the geriatric list.
MORE: NBA players react to Lakers' Bronny James selection
LeBron James contract
James declined his player option of $51.4 million during the 2024 offseason and hit free agency. However, he returned to the Lakers shortly thereafter, agreeing to a two-year deal worth $104 million with a player option for the second season and a no-trade clause.
James' primary motivation in opting out was to sign a no-trade clause with the Lakers. Now, he is in full control over where he plays. Los Angeles could attempt to trade him, but James will have veto power for the next two seasons — provided that he picks up his player option for 2025-26.
Some believed a three-year contract worth roughly $162.1 million could be in play for James. That would have positioned him to be under contract when Bryce comes into the league.
Instead, James opted for freedom. That will allow him plenty of flexibility as he looks to earn another NBA championship before riding off into the sunset.
