“He belongs in the NBA”: LeBron James praises son Bronny after Lakers win over Pacers

The Los Angeles Lakers continue to build momentum in the 2025–26 National Basketball Association season, compiling an impressive 47-26 record to sit third in the highly competitive Western Conference standings. With the playoffs fast approaching, the Lakers are beginning to hit their stride, fueled by strong performances from both their veteran stars and emerging contributors.

Los Angeles returned to the win column in emphatic fashion on Thursday, March 26 (Philippine Standard Time), securing a 137-130 victory over the Indiana Pacers at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The high-scoring affair highlighted the Lakers’ offensive firepower, with multiple players stepping up to deliver a complete team performance.

Superstar duo Luka Doncic and LeBron James led the charge, while Austin Reaves and Jaxson Hayes provided crucial support on both ends of the floor. However, one of the most compelling storylines from the game was the increased involvement of rookie guard Bronny James, who made the most of his extended minutes.

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Bronny logged 13 minutes—his highest playing time this month—and contributed four points, two steals, one rebound, and one assist. While the numbers may appear modest, his impact went beyond the stat sheet, as he displayed defensive intensity, improved confidence, and a better feel for the pace of the game. His performance offered a glimpse of his potential as he continues to adjust to the demands of the NBA.

Following the game, LeBron James, the league’s all-time leading scorer, expressed immense pride in his son’s development and performance, emphasizing that Bronny has earned his place at the highest level of basketball.

Father-son bonding: LeBron and Bronny James put on a slam dunk competition pic.twitter.com/FiwRPHXbLX

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“So, just proud of him. I’m super proud of him. And he belongs. He belongs. Physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, he’s back. Real, meaningful minutes. I couldn’t dream of better. I couldn’t dream of something better than that. Just couldn’t,” LeBron said.

“For him to go out and, you know, I mean obviously, he’s shown over this – almost two years, year and a half – his progression. And why he belongs in this league. And what he can do in this league. So, for the coaching staff to trust him tonight, and for him to have significant playing time and make plays and for me to be out there on the floor with him. I couldn’t, I couldn’t dream of a better feeling than that. I could not,” he added.

Despite the encouraging outing, Bronny’s rookie campaign has largely been a work in progress. The young guard has averaged 2.3 points, 0.8 assists, and 0.7 rebounds in just 6.7 minutes per game across 27 NBA appearances, reflecting both limited opportunities and the adjustment period typical for first-year players.

To accelerate his development, Bronny has also spent time in the NBA G League with the South Bay Lakers, where he has shown significantly more promise. Across 18 appearances, including the regular season and Tip-Off Tournament, he has averaged an impressive 18.6 points, 4.8 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. Those performances have highlighted his scoring ability, playmaking instincts, and defensive potential—qualities that the Lakers hope will eventually translate consistently at the NBA level.

There have already been flashes of that potential in the NBA. Bronny recorded a nine-point outing against the Utah Jazz in February and followed it up with a career-best performance of 17 points, five assists, and three rebounds against the Milwaukee Bucks in March, signaling steady progress.

As the Lakers push toward the postseason, the continued growth of Bronny James could provide an additional boost to an already deep roster. With veteran leadership, star power, and emerging young talent, Los Angeles appears well-positioned to make a strong run—while also nurturing the next generation, led by one of the most closely watched rookies in the league.

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