Bronny James Faces New Season Without LeBron at Lakers Media Day

The annual media day for the Los Angeles Lakers typically involves familiar sights: new jerseys, bright lights, and repetitive questions. However, this year’s event at the UCLA Health Training Center had a unique element — the noticeable absence of LeBron James.

Bronny James, entering his third season with the Lakers, now finds himself without his father in the locker room. LeBron James departed to join the Philadelphia 76ers during the recent free agency period. This shift marks a clear transition for both the team and Bronny himself.

During a press session at the Lakers’ training facility, Bronny addressed reporters with an important point about his identity.

You guys know me as Bronny. My real name is LeBron. I’ve been doing this for however long, so I think it’s a motivating factor for me just getting up every day and trying to prove myself as Bronny instead of LeBron,

he stated.

A video shared by reporter Jordan Richard from the first practice session captured Bronny as the last player leaving the gym, reinforcing his dedication to the game.

Bronny acknowledged the changed atmosphere in the building without his father. While anticipation builds for their matchup against the 76ers on Christmas Day, Bronny is concentrating on his current responsibilities.

Last season, Bronny contributed in 42 games, averaging 2.9 points with less than nine minutes of play per game. He showed improvement by shooting 38.6% from beyond the arc, better than his first-year performance. Despite this progress, gaining playing time remains a challenge due to competition from Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves in the backcourt.

Bronny approaches the new season with determination, ready to meet any expectations placed upon him by the team.