Bronny and LeBron James are on the brink of creating a landmark moment in sports history. The Los Angeles Lakers selected LeBron’s eldest son, Bronny, as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, setting the stage for a potential father-son duo on the same NBA team—a feat yet to be accomplished in the league.
This prospect of LeBron and Bronny sharing the court has sparked widespread excitement and nostalgia, reminiscent of similar historic moments in other professional sports. While the NBA waits in anticipation, it's worth noting the remarkable instances where father and son have teamed up in various sports environments.
NFL and the Nessers
The NFL has its own tale of familial teamwork. Ted and Charlie Nesser stand as the only father-son duo to have played on the same team. They took the field for the Columbus Panhandles against the Akron World's Champions on September 25, 1921. The Panhandles, later rebranded as the Columbus Tigers before disbanding in 1926, were home to the Nesser clan, with six brothers—John, Paul, Phil, Ted, Frank, and Al—playing for the team at different times in the early 20th century.
Howes of Hockey
In hockey, the legendary Gordie Howe famously played alongside his sons Mark and Marty for the NHL's Hartford Whalers. Before their NHL days, Mark and Marty featured for the Toronto Marlboros in the Ontario Hockey League during the 1972-73 season. Gordie Howe made a storied return to hockey by joining his sons in the World Hockey Association's Houston Aeros in 1973. A remarkable moment came when Mark Howe scored his first professional goal exactly 27 years after Gordie netted his debut goal for the Detroit Red Wings.
The trio eventually made their way to the NHL with the Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 season. Gordie, even at 51, managed to contribute significantly, scoring 15 goals and adding 26 assists for the season, further embellishing his already illustrious career.
Baseball Bonds
Baseball has also seen its share of memorable father-son performances. Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. donned the Seattle Mariners' uniform from 1990 to 1991. On September 14, 1990, the Griffeys etched their names in the record books, hitting back-to-back home runs in an unforgettable display of familial synergy. Ken Griffey Jr. had an outstanding season in 1990, scoring 91 runs, hitting 22 homers, and maintaining a .300 batting average.
Another father-son pair shared the baseball outfield when Tim Raines Sr. and Tim Raines Jr. played together for the Baltimore Orioles in the latter part of the 2001 season. On October 4, 2001, the two manned left field and center field, respectively, illustrating yet another instance of familial collaboration in professional sports.
Basketball Dynasties
While the NBA has yet to witness a father-son duo playing simultaneously, it has no shortage of notable father-son pairs. LeBron and Bronny James join a prestigious list of duos, including Greg and Cole Anthony, Mychal and Klay Thompson, Bill and Luke Walton, and the Curry family trio—Dell, Steph, and Seth. These basketball dynasties have left an indelible mark on the sport, underscoring the deep roots and enduring legacies within basketball families.
As the upcoming NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on the Lakers to see if LeBron and Bronny can indeed make history by stepping on the court together. This unprecedented event would not only symbolize a milestone in their careers but also cement their place in the annals of sports history. The anticipation is palpable, and the sports world waits with bated breath for this potentially iconic debut.