The Las Vegas Summer League turned into a family celebration Saturday night, with LeBron James and his 10-year-old daughter, Zhuri Nova, sitting courtside to watch the Los Angeles Lakers take on the New Orleans Pelicans. But all eyes were on Bronny James, who continues working to establish himself in the NBA. While his journey hasn’t matched the sky-high expectations that come with his famous last name, Saturday’s July 12 game represented another small but meaningful step forward, with his family there to witness every moment.
How Did Bronny James Perform With His Family Watching?
In a video posted by the NBA on X, LeBron was spotted courtside with Zhuri ahead of the Lakers-Pelicans clash, watching closely as Bronny prepared to take the floor. The 20-year-old guard made the most of his 24 minutes, finishing with 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting, including 1-of-5 from beyond the arc, along with three assists and one rebound. The Lakers came away with a 94-81 victory.
LEBRON JAMES IS IN THE HOUSE!
Lakers-Pelicans coming up next on ESPN2 🍿 pic.twitter.com/w8T3QhTkoV
— NBA (@NBA) July 13, 2025
This performance marked a high point in what’s been a slow start to Bronny’s professional career. Drafted 55th overall by the Lakers in the 2024 NBA Draft, he spent most of his rookie season playing limited minutes.
In 27 regular-season appearances, he averaged just 2.3 points in 6.7 minutes per game, often rotating in from the end of the bench or spending time in the G-League. However, the Summer League in 2025 has offered a different stage, and with his family present, he looked more confident than ever.
Why Does Family Support Matter So Much to the James Dynasty?
Support from the James family for each other has never wavered. Just two nights earlier, Bronny squared off against Cooper Flagg in one of the most hyped Summer League showdowns so far. Courtside again were Savannah James and daughter Zhuri, both cheering on Bronny in what was a closely watched matchup between a second-year guard and a standout rookie forward.
Zhuri and Savannah James pulled up to watch Bronny 💜
Summer League on ESPN/ESPN+ 🍿 pic.twitter.com/w8T3QhTkoV
— espnW (@espnW) July 11, 2025
The James Gang, as they’re affectionately known, has long emphasized family, sportsmanship, and showing up for one another. That bond goes beyond LeBron and Bronny. Bryce James, Bronny’s younger brother, signed with the Arizona Wildcats basketball program, continuing the family’s strong basketball lineage. Even young Zhuri has garnered attention as a talented volleyball player, showing the athletic streak runs deep.
For LeBron, now entering his 23rd NBA season after opting into his player option, moments like these represent more than just basketball. On Saturday, the 40-year-old NBA icon was a proud father first, embracing Bronny, posing for photos with Zhuri, and soaking in another shared memory as the next generation of James talent looks to find its place.
