LeBron James’ oldest child spent three days in the hospital that summer after going into cardiac arrest on July 24 during preseason practice.
Before the halftime break, LeBron James had two separate playing sessions totaling six minutes, during which he missed his sole 3-point attempt. Nevertheless, he showcased his versatility by securing a rebound, providing an assist, and blocking a shot.
The setting for this action was USC’s home arena, the Galen Center, where LeBron, the leader of the Lakers’ first NBA Cup championship, was in attendance on Saturday night in Sin City.
Earlier in the week, LeBron James, a four-time MVP, expressed his immense excitement about his son’s NCAA debut, recognizing it as a significant milestone for their family.
LeBron James shared with reporters on Thursday, “This is a major accomplishment for our family, that much is clear. He’s taking another step forward in his basketball career.”
In August, it was disclosed by Los Angeles doctors that LeBron James Jr., a 19-year-old four-star recruit from Sierra Canyon High School, had a congenital heart abnormality leading to a cardiac episode. After undergoing corrective surgery in November, he was declared medically cleared to play by USC coach Andy Enfield, who also noted that the freshman might have limited playing time.
Enfield mentioned, “It appears that he is in excellent spirits and appears well.”
With the Trojans holding a four-point lead, LeBron James Jr., donning a No. 6 jersey with his name on the back, received a warm welcome, entering the game at the 12-minute and 58-second mark of the first half. The crowd’s applause was echoed by a post on X by Kevin Durant, extending a welcome back to Bronny upon James Jr.’s entrance.