LeBron James has finally opened up about a topic fans have been speculating on for months: why he hasn’t been talking as much with his 21-year-old son and Los Angeles Lakers teammate, Bronny James, lately. The revelation came right after the Lakers’ win over the Utah Jazz on November 18, when the NBA legend reflected on the changes in his family life now that his eldest son is living independently.
The father-son duo has always captured public attention, especially since Bronny was drafted by the Lakers in 2024, fulfilling a long-held dream LeBron often shared. Watching his son step into the NBA and take his first full season seriously has been a source of pride, but it has also created new challenges in their relationship. LeBron, now in his record-breaking 23rd NBA season, took a moment to reflect on Bronny’s growth both on and off the court, emphasizing the natural shift in dynamics that comes with independence.
“It’s been great to see and to watch,” LeBron said when asked about Bronny’s progress, noting that his son is still young, having just turned 21 on October 6. The superstar highlighted how Bronny continues to improve with every practice and game, saying, “He’s still learning and still getting better with each and every rep. I think he’s enjoying the process.” LeBron’s pride in his son’s development was evident, but so too was his honest admission about the impact of Bronny moving out.
“You can ask him more than me… He’s not a resident anymore, so we don’t talk as much,” LeBron admitted. Bronny officially moving into his own place has naturally shifted their interactions. While LeBron is clearly supportive and maintains a warm connection with his son, the day-to-day contact they once shared has inevitably decreased. The NBA superstar even demonstrated this shift in the locker room, spotting Bronny and calling out warmly, “Bronny, how are you?”—a brief but telling moment that reflects the new rhythm of their relationship.
The father-son duo’s journey in professional basketball is historic. With Bronny drafted by the Lakers and making his debut last season, the James family now boasts its first-ever father-son combination sharing an NBA court. While this milestone has created headlines and captivated fans, LeBron made it clear that he is not postponing his own career or retirement to spend more time playing alongside his children. The focus remains on Bronny’s development and independence, marking a new chapter in the legendary athlete’s life.
LeBron also touched on his younger son, 18-year-old Bryce James, who is currently a freshman at the University of Arizona. While Bryce has yet to reach the NBA stage, LeBron’s reflections on his eldest son hint at the complexities of parenthood in the spotlight. Balancing fatherhood with professional obligations has never been simple, especially when both father and son share the pressures of the league. Yet despite the challenges, LeBron emphasized his unwavering support and pride in Bronny’s journey.
Fans have responded with a mix of awe and curiosity, fascinated by the candid glimpse into the personal side of LeBron’s life. The revelation that even one of the greatest athletes of all time experiences shifts in his father-son relationship humanizes the superstar in a way that resonates deeply. Social media has exploded with reactions, ranging from admiration for Bronny’s independence to empathy for LeBron’s quiet struggles in navigating the evolving dynamics of his family.
The story of LeBron and Bronny serves as a reminder that no matter how extraordinary someone’s public life may be, the private moments of growth, distance, and adaptation remain universal. As Bronny continues to forge his own path in the NBA, and LeBron maintains his iconic career, the father-son relationship will continue evolving—complex, emotional, and deeply human. Fans will undoubtedly be watching every step, both on and off the court, as this legendary family navigates its next chapter.
