Unlike his father, who created waves as a high school sensation, Bronny James didn’t experience the same level of media frenzy in his early years. While there were always high expectations due to his legendary father, Bronny’s journey has been more subtle.
However, that hasn’t stopped people from following his every move. The 20-year-old may not have had the same buzz that LeBron did during his youth, but there is still immense pressure on his shoulders as he works his way into the professional basketball world.
Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce has weighed in on Bronny‘s maturity and how he has handled the pressures of being LeBron’s son.
“He’s handled the hype and the scrutiny and everything so perfect,” Kelce shared.
LeBron himself recognizes the immense pressure Bronny faces, which was something he didn’t have to contend with at the same age. Reflecting on his own experience, the NBA superstar pointed out the difference in their paths.
“I didn’t have to deal with my father being this f***ing guy on the pedestal. I didn’t have to deal with that. Bronny has to deal with all of that,” LeBron said.
“Bronny doesn’t have to play basketball at all. It’s not like he needs the money.”
Bronny’s path
Despite the media attention and family expectations, Bronny has stayed grounded and focused on his own journey. LeBron paints a picture of his son as a “chill” and “easy” young man who remains dedicated to his craft and takes care of his responsibilities.
“If you ever meet Bronny you’ll realize I’m such an idiot to look down on him,” LeBron shared on the “New Heights” podcast. “He’s the most chill, easy, fun kid in the world. He goes to work, he goes home, he takes care of his boy, he plays his video games, he reads a little bit and then he comes back and does the same.”
For LeBron, the idea of playing alongside his son has been a dream for years. In fact, he first started considering it as early as when Bronny was just 14 years old. LeBron recalls a conversation he had when he was in his 15th season with the NBA, feeling in peak physical form after a successful playoff run.
“I think Bronny was either in the 7th or 8th grade and it was my 15th year in the NBA, and I felt incredible,” LeBron explained. “I came out of that season, I felt so damn good. And I think somebody caught me like, ‘Do you think it’s a possibility that you may stick around and play with one of your kids?’ I was like, ‘Man, the way I feel right now, there is a possibility.'”