There are still many unknowns about how things will unfold with both LeBron James and Bronny James joining the Los Angeles Lakers this season.
However, LeBron has set a clear boundary – he doesn’t want to be called “dad” in the workplace.
“We already laid that down. He cannot call me ‘Dad’ in the workplace,” James said in a recent episode of ‘The Shop’ filmed in Paris during the Olympics.
“Once we leave the practice facility and the gates close, I can be ‘Dad’ again.”
The Lakers drafted Bronny with the No. 55 pick in the NBA Draft after a season at USC. He signed a four-year, $7.9 million contract with the team, a rare feat for a second round pick. Bronny showcased his skills with the Lakers’ Summer League team in Las Vegas, impressing despite a tough start.
LeBron has always expressed his desire to play alongside his son before retiring. When they hit the court together, they will make history as the first father-son duo in the NBA and the fourth in major American professional sports.
It’s uncertain how Bronny will impact the Lakers this season under new head coach JJ Redick. Working with his father, a veteran in the league, as a colleague poses its own challenges.
While LeBron finds it easy to navigate their roles, he acknowledges the adjustment for his son.
“It’s easy for me. It’s going to be an adjustment for him,” James said. “But we can not be running down the court and he be like, ‘Dad, push the ball up. Dad I’m open! Dad!’ No, he cannot do that.”