Career Timeline of Bronny James: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Bronny James built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Bronny James Jr. is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers and on assignment with the South Bay Lakers. He was a highly-rated high school player, earning McDonald's All-American honors. He played college basketball at USC before being drafted by the Lakers in the second round of the 2024 NBA draft. Notably, he is the son of LeBron James Sr. and they are the first father-son duo to play together in the NBA.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

December 3, 2018: First Game for Crossroads School

On December 3, 2018, Bronny James scored 27 points in his first game for Crossroads School.

April 2019: Nike Elite Youth Basketball League Debut

In April 2019, Bronny James made his Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) debut with Strive for Greatness.

November 21, 2019: High School Debut

On November 21, 2019, Bronny James made his high school debut, scoring 10 points.

January 15, 2020: Season-High 17 Points

On January 15, 2020, Bronny James scored a season-high 17 points in a win over Viewpoint School.

2020: James Signs with FaZe Clan

In 2020, Bronny James signed with esports organization FaZe Clan. He was expected to stream Fortnite and Call of Duty: Warzone under the handle "FaZe Bronny."

June 2021: Sports Illustrated Cover Appearance

In June 2021, Bronny James appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated with members of FaZe Clan, including NFL quarterback Kyler Murray.

December 4, 2021: Game-High 19 Points

On December 4, 2021, Bronny James scored a game-high 19 points in a win over St. Vincent–St. Mary High School.

February 2022: Trademark Filings

In February 2022, Bronny James filed for trademarks on variations of his name: Bronny, BJ Jr., and Bronald. He also signed NIL deals with Nike and Beats by Dre during his high school years.

March 2023: Projected Top-Ten NBA Draft Pick

In March 2023, Bronny James was projected as a top-ten pick in the 2024 NBA draft.

2023: Analysis of James's Strengths and Weaknesses

In 2023, analysts noted that Bronny James's strengths were shooting and defense, though he lacked size compared to NBA players with similar skills. He excelled in catch-and-shoot situations and could shoot off movement. His defensive capabilities, especially against point guards, were also praised. However, creating separation from defenders and driving/finishing were identified as weaknesses. In 2023, ESPN's Givony said James was developing into one of the top perimeter defenders in his high school class.

January 17, 2024: Season-High Minutes

On January 17, 2024, Bronny James played a season-high 30 minutes in a loss to No. 12 Arizona, recording 11 points, five rebounds, and six assists.

April 5, 2024: NBA Draft Entry

On April 5, 2024, Bronny James announced on Instagram that he would enter the 2024 NBA draft while maintaining his college eligibility and also enter the transfer portal.

May 2024: Medically Cleared for NBA Draft

In early May 2024, Bronny James was medically cleared to be eligible for the NBA draft.

May 28, 2024: NBA Workout Invites

On May 28, 2024, it was reported that Bronny James had workout invites from NBA teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns, and worked out with only those two teams.

June 27, 2024: Drafted by Los Angeles Lakers

On June 27, 2024, Bronny James was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft, making him and his father the first father-son duo in the NBA at the same time. He signed a contract with the Lakers on July 3.

October 22, 2024: NBA Debut

On October 22, 2024, in the season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Bronny James and his father became the first father-son duo to play together in the NBA. Bronny debuted with a rebound in three minutes of play in the Lakers' win.

December 12, 2024: Game-High 30 Points in G League

On December 12, 2024, Bronny James scored a game-high 30 points in the South Bay Lakers' loss to the Valley Suns.

2024: NBA Draft Selection

In 2024, Bronny James was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the NBA draft after playing one season of college basketball for the USC Trojans.