The 2026 NBA season will mark a major change for Bronny James, in what will be his first season with the Los Angeles Lakers without his father, LeBron James, by his side.
After spending the previous two seasons together and making NBA history as the league’s first active father-son duo, the James family members are now preparing to walk separate paths. Still, Bronny does not appear overly concerned about his father’s decision to leave Los Angeles and join the Philadelphia 76ers.
Bronny James Gives Simple Response to LeBron James’ 76ers Move
Bronny entered the NBA after the Lakers selected him 55th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. He is now preparing for his third season in Los Angeles after the team guaranteed his $2.3 million salary earlier this offseason.
During a recent public appearance, Bronny was seen signing autographs and taking pictures with several young fans. At one point, a young fan asked him how he felt about his legendary father joining the 76ers.
“It’s whatever, it’s my dad,” Bronny answered.
Bronny on LeBron leaving to Philadelphia:
“It’s whatever, it’s my dad.” 😂 pic.twitter.com/hi8Lzvae0q
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 22, 2026
After eight seasons with the Lakers, LeBron officially informed the franchise that he would be moving on. The four-time NBA champion took a long time considering his options before ultimately choosing Philadelphia.
LeBron’s return to the Eastern Conference now means Bronny will continue his career in Los Angeles without his father. Their time as teammates may have come to an end, but the experience gave Bronny a unique opportunity to learn directly from one of the greatest players in basketball history.
Before leaving, LeBron watched his son make progress while wearing the Lakers’ iconic purple and gold. During his second NBA season, Bronny appeared in 42 regular-season games and averaged 2.9 points, 1.2 assists, and 0.5 steals per game. He also continued to develop with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where he received a larger role and showed increased offensive production.
With Bronny showing noticeable improvement, the Lakers and head coach JJ Redick appear willing to remain patient with his development rather than rushing to decide his future.
The 21-year-old is entering a new chapter in Los Angeles as the team moves into what is shaping up to be the Luka Dončić era. He is currently with his Lakers teammates in Dončić’s home country of Slovenia.
Interestingly, the Lakers are scheduled to host the 76ers at Crypto.com Arena on Christmas Day. That matchup could create another historic moment for the James family, as LeBron and Bronny would become the first father-son duo in NBA history to face each other on Christmas Day.
