Bronny James checks in to standing ovation in Cleveland after Cavaliers' tribute video
Wednesday night, LeBron and Bronny James made their return to Cleveland as members of the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron, of course, started his legendary career with the Cavaliers and Bronny was born there – meaning the game was a full-circle moment.
Prior to tip-off, the Cavs released a video tribute to the Jameses upon their return. Then, in the fourth quarter, Bronny checked in and received a standing ovation.
It marked Bronny James’ second career appearance with the Lakers as he plays alongside his father. Although he played at Chatsworth (Calif.) Sierra Canyon, he spent most of his life in Cleveland, which added to the special nature of Wednesday’s game.
As if that wasn’t enough, James scored his first career points. However, the Lakers struggled mightily against the Cavaliers en route to the 134-110 loss at Rocket Mortage FieldHouse.
For the Jameses, it was a big night. The Cavs also celebrated their return, putting up “Welcome Home” messages upon the Lakers’ arrival. Bronny also spoke about what it’d mean to be back in Cleveland with his dad.
“It’s going to be real special,” James said, via the AP. “It feels good to be out here with my dad — in our home.”
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LeBron – an Akron native – burst onto the NBA scene in Cleveland and put together a storied career across his two stints. His biggest achievement, though, was ending the Cavaliers’ NBA title drought and bringing a championship back home after completing an unprecedented 3-1 comeback against the Golden State Warriors.
Of course, it’s not the first time James has been back in Cleveland since he joined the Lakers. But doing so with Bronny made it one to remember.
“It’s definitely going to be very special to be back home and be able to run the floor with my son who spent a lot of time on that floor throughout my days when I played there for 11 years,” LeBron said after the Lakers’ game against the Suns on Monday.
The Lakers selected Bronny James with the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft and new coach J.J. Redick pointed out some good things he saw during the pre-draft process. He made his NBA debut in the season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but will move to the G-League shuttle after this road trip and split time between the NBA and the G-League, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported.