MANILA, Philippines—Things are getting clearer when it comes to Bronny James’ stint in the NBA playing for the Los Angeles Lakers with his father LeBron.
In his first season in the NBA, Bronny James will be donning the No. 9 as announced by the Lakers a day after he was picked in the second round of this year’s NBA Draft.
James Jr #9 pic.twitter.com/DYYWQD56Ai
— Bronny (@BronnyJamesJr) June 28, 2024
Bronny was selected 55th overall, a historic feat that made buzz all around the world.
READ: Bronny James, LeBron’s son, picked by Lakers in NBA Draft
Bronny’s selection signaled the first-ever father-and-son duo playing together in the NBA with league legend LeBron still under contract with the Lakers.
However, LeBron still hasn’t picked up his player option amounting to 51.4 million dollars for the 2024-25 season but Bronny’s selection may change that decision into a positive one for the Lakers.
“LeBron has a decision on his opt-out… but if it worked out that he was on our team next season, NBA history could be made,” team manager Rob Pelinka said.
“And NBA history should be made in a Lakers uniform.”
READ: NBA: After drafting Bronny James, Lakers hope to lock down LeBron next
The last time the Lakers saw someone in action with the No. 9 was Sterling Brown two seasons ago. Before him was Rajon Rondo, the last No. 9 to wear the Laker kit and win a title at the same time.
Meanwhile, Dalton Knecht, the other Los Angeles rookie, will be wearing No. 4.
Nick Van Exel, who used the jersey No. 9 in his time with the Lakers, approved of Bronny’s jersey number choice to which LeBron couldn’t help but react.
“That’s so TOUGH!! Nick the Quick was SO COLD!!!!!” LeBron posted on X (formerly Twitter).