It’s no surprise the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason opener centered around Bronny James, with the entire sports world tuning in with curiosity.
One of those more than excited to see the first father-son duo in NBA history take the floor was Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade. ESPN posted a compilation of pictures and videos of LeBron and Bronny on the court together, where Wade commented with three fire emojis.
Wade and James were both top draft picks in the 2003 NBA Draft, forming a lifelong bond throughout their careers as rivals and teammates. Now, Wade watches on as one of his closest friends lives out his dream playing alongside his son.
The former USC Trojan did not have the most efficient opener, but did almost break a record set by Wade. On Friday, James had three blocks in the Lakers’ 124-107 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The only player with more block in a preseason debut was Wade, who had four in 2003.
It’s much too early to say both are on similar paths, but the Lakers were encouraged by James’ start.
“He can do some things defensively at his size that are really unique, and I think can turn into a really disruptive defender,” Lakers coach J.J. Redick said. “That manifested itself. On the offensive end, he’s still figuring out who he is. That’s our job as a player development program just to build him in.
Erik Spoelstra Ranked Below Lakers Newcomer In NBA Coach Of The Year Odds
Jimmy Butler Praises WNBA Stars As Role Models For His Daughter’s Life
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Miami Heat On SI. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on X @AnthonyPasci.
Sean M. Haffey/Getty ImagesAn anonymous NBA scout revealed this week that they did not view Bronny James as a high-level NBA prospect leading up to the 2024 NBA
Many of Houston’s top prospects received high marks in the annual NBA GM survey. However, reviews are more mixed when it comes to a potential 2024-25 postseas
Zach Edey got his first taste of the NBA on Monday night, with the Memphis Grizzlies playing the Dallas Mavericks in the first preseason game for both teams. Th
Monday night’s game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Zealand Breakers meant different things for different players on the home team. For Joel Embiid