Bronny and LeBron James are on the cusp of making sports history. If they both take the court in the upcoming NBA season, it would mark the first time a father-son duo has played together in the NBA. This unprecedented event follows the Los Angeles Lakers selecting LeBron’s eldest son, Bronny, as the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Such an occasion invites reflection on other memorable father-son partnerships in professional sports.
Historic Father-Son Duos in Sports
The world of sports has witnessed several father-son duos creating memorable moments, though rarely on the same team. In the NFL, Ted and Charlie Nesser remain the only father-son pair 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, eventually rebranded as the Columbus Tigers, were active until 1926. The Nesser family itself boasted a remarkable lineup, with six brothers - John, Paul, Phil, Ted, Frank, and Al - all donning the Panhandles uniform at various times in the early 20th century.
Turning to hockey, Gordie Howe's legacy extended beyond personal accolades as he skated alongside his sons Mark and Marty for the NHL's Hartford Whalers. This family collaboration first unfolded in 1973 when Gordie came out of retirement to join his sons in the World Hockey Association's Houston Aeros. The Howe family transitioned to the NHL's Hartford Whalers in the 1979-80 season, with Gordie contributing 15 goals and 26 assists.
Baseball's Iconic Father-Son Moments
Baseball, too, has its share of father-son memories. Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. provided one of MLB's most iconic moments by playing side-by-side for the Seattle Mariners from 1990 to 1991. On September 14, 1990, the Griffeys etched their names into the record books, hitting back-to-back home runs. During that season, Griffey Jr. showcased his burgeoning talent with 91 runs, 22 homers, and a .300 batting average.
Tim Raines Sr. and Tim Raines Jr. created a unique snapshot in MLB history by sharing the outfield for the Baltimore Orioles towards the end of the 2001 season. On October 4, 2001, the Raines father-son duo simultaneously patrolled left and center field, marking a notable moment in baseball history.
NBA’s Notable Father-Son Duos
While LeBron and Bronny James may be on the brink of setting a new NBA milestone by playing together, the league already boasts a rich tapestry of father-son connections. Greg and Cole Anthony, Mychal and Klay Thompson, Bill and Luke Walton, and Dell, Steph, and Seth Curry, among others, have all contributed to the league’s storylines over the years. These duos highlight the oft-repeated adage that talent runs in the family.
This anticipated moment of LeBron and Bronny playing together underscores not just the continuation of a legacy but also the beginning of a new chapter. Beyond their individual achievements, the James duo is set to inspire future generations, reflecting both the evolution and the timelessness of sports dynasties.