With the 2023-24 college basketball season just six weeks away, the USC Trojans are still waiting to see Bronny James – the eldest son of LeBron James – hit the court. The soon-to-be 19-year-old missed the Trojans’ first practice of the season on Monday (September 25), according to head coach Andy Enfield.
“Bronny’s doing very well. But we just can’t comment on anything medically. He’s going to class and doing extremely well in school, and we’re really excited for him,” Enfield said. The highly-touted freshman announced his commitment to USC on May 6, despite fielding offers from Ohio State, Oregon, and more.
“He’s around when he can be. And he’s getting caught up [with] some schoolwork and doing very well. His grades are excellent right now, and he’s being the true student-athlete,” Enfield continued. It’s unclear when Bronny will return to the court, but right now the team is focused on making sure he’s healthy.
RELATED: What Caused Bronny James’ Sudden Cardiac Arrest Revealed
For those who need a refresher, Bronny James went into cardiac arrest on July 24 during a basketball workout with the USC Trojans. He was transported to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and they determined he had ‘an anatomically and functionally significant congenital heart defect,’ which caused the episode.
“We are very confident in Bronny’s full recovery and return to basketball in the very near future. We will continue to provide updates to media and respectfully reiterate the family’s request for privacy,” the James family wrote in a statement at the time – adding that his medical condition can and will be treated.
DJ Rodman – one of Bronny’s teammates and the son of Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman – praised Bronny for his positivity and not letting the medical episode change his mindset. “He’s just a very positive guy, and every time I see him, it’s just a big smile and a ‘What’s up?'” he said in an interview with ESPN.
“It doesn’t matter who you are. It doesn’t matter how invincible you think you are,” Rodman continued – referring to Bronny’s experience with cardiac arrest. “It could happen to anyone. And I know I’m not taking anything for granted. I know Bronny never took anything for granted. And I’m just happy that he’s great.”
Bronny James Expected to Return to the Court at Some Point
Coach Enfield declined to release a timetable for Bronny James’ return to the court, but he did say he’s excited for when that day comes and has big plans for the freshman in the near future – adding that they view him as a ‘very valuable part of our basketball team.’ He should be expected to return this season.
“But that’ll be all sorted out. He’s the ultimate teammate because he cares about winning, and he has such a personal relationship with all his teammates. When you watch him on the court and you’re around them, that’s the first thing you notice within five or 10 minutes — and it’s contagious,” Enfield said.
Bronny is the first of three children between LeBron James and his wife, Savannah James – his godfather is future Hall of Fame guard Chris Paul, who is close friends with LeBron. Bronny was born on October 6, 2004 and he has a younger brother, Bryce James, who also has a future in basketball.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: LeBron James Posts Video of Son, Bronny James, Playing the Piano Following Cardiac Arrest
Bronny James played high school basketball at Sierra Canyon School, where he quickly made a name for himself – he wasn’t the best player on the team, but that just goes to show how much talent he was playing with. He was a four-star recruit out of high school and is expected to play in the NBA someday.
Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.