‘Nepotism at Its Best’: LeBron James and Son Bronny Criticized by Fans after Making History Playing Together

LeBron James once revealed that his biggest wish was to play on the same court as his eldest child for at least one year, a wish that has now been partially granted. But, his son’s basketball career nearly ended before it began when he suffered a medical scare in 2023. Basketball legend LeBron James made National Basketball Association (NBA) history on October 22, 2024, when he played a game alongside his son, LeBron “Bronny.” Despite the moment’s significance, some critics argued that Bronny only made it onto the court due to his father’s influence. The NBA shared a clip of LeBron and his son preparing to play together for the Los Angeles Lakers. They were shown taking off their sweaters before stepping onto the court, with LeBron sporting his number 23 jersey with his last name on the back.

Bronny, wearing number nine, had “James Jr.” on his jersey. The pair were called onto the court simultaneously, sparking some negative comments from netizens. One person lamented, “It would mean more if it was earned.”A critic who believed Bronny hadn’t earned his spot wrote, “NEPOTISM AT ITS BEST… kid doesn’t [sic] even belong in the GLeague.” Another person felt, “Bronny should have stayed in college and improved his game Bryce [James] is the one [sic].” One viewer found the situation “So cringe.. We all know bronny is not good enough to be in the league smh.” Despite the negativity, a fan sided with the father-son duo.

The fan commented, “unbelievable. No matter the outcome. LB created that path for his son. Coming from the bottom to the top. And doing what a father should do for he’s [sic] son. Forget what others say y’all made history. Father/Son sharing the court .” The Lakers shared a clip of LeBron coaching his son before they were called to play. He asked Bronny if he noticed how intense the game was and advised him to “just play carefree though.”LeBron encouraged his son not to worry about mistakes and to “just go out and play hard.” Some Instagram users rallied behind Bronny, with one commenting, “A Good Kid, I hope he improves and shows he belongs in the NBA.”

Another basketball fan remarked, “I hope Bronny improves, he’s feeling way too much pressure and it’s showing.” Someone else, excited about the moment, said, “This the most beautiful thing ever idc what anyone says. Prolly the highlight of his whole career, playing alongside and tutoring his own seed.”A Facebook user had a different take, asking, “If he is worthy nba talent why did he only play 2 min? This wasn’t organic but staged and forced, taking a roster spot from nba ready [sic]. What a shame.”

Another critic claimed, “LeBron forced it to happen, but a great moment for him. Not a great moment for the NBA or anyone else. Yes it’s history and all that. Just wish it was more natural and earned.” But, a netizen who felt Bronny just needed time commented, “Only time will tell if this is a great historical moment or evidence of nepotism! For the sake of LeBron’s lega