LeBron James signs with 76ers as Rich Paul says Bronny stays on Lakers
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
LeBron James made what he promised was his “final decision.” Now the focus turns to the next step in Bronny James’ young NBA career.
Bronny James’ status with the Los Angeles Lakers became clear in late June, when his $2.3 million salary for next season was fully guaranteed after the team refused to waive him before the deadline. A day later, LeBron James informed the Lakers that he plans to continue his career elsewhere in an unprecedented 24th NBA season.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James interacts with his son Bronny James during a game against the Boston Celtics at Crypto.com Arena on January 23, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
Bronny was drafted by the Lakers in 2024, becoming part of the first father-son duo in NBA history. LeBron didn’t shy away from much of what it meant to share an NBA locker room with Bronny; This was a turning point that became even more important when they played together in competitive matches later last season. This history has made it natural for some to wonder whether the James family wants this connection to continue.
CLICK TO GET MORE SPORTS NEWS FOXNEWS.COM
But Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports and the agent who represents both players, cautioned that LeBron’s decision does not mean Bronny will make a uniform change.
“These are not package deals” Paul told ESPN. The report also stated that “there are no current plans or requests for Bronny Janes to join her father.”
LeBron James (23) of the Los Angeles Lakers plays against the Golden State Warriors during a timeout in the second half of a preseason NBA game at Chase Center on October 5, 2025 in San Francisco, California. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA ATHLETES, INCLUDING NEW TEAMMATES, REACT TO LEBRON JAMES JOINING THE 76ERS: ‘WELCOME TO THE CITY’
All signs now point to the Lakers keeping Bronny James in Los Angeles and allowing him to continue to develop under head coach JJ Redick. Luka Doncic will lead the backcourt and Austin Reaves is expected to remain in a key role.
Bronny will be surrounded by several young players and offseason additions as the Lakers reshape their roster. While Adou Thiero and Dalton Knecht are set to return, center Walker Kessler and free agents Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton could also impact the rotation.
Bronny James (9) and LeBron James (23) of the Los Angeles Lakers interact during a game against the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena on April 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)
Bronny played in 42 games last season; This was an increase from his 27 appearances at the NBA level during his rookie season. He averaged 2.9 points per game in 2025-26.
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD FOX NEWS APPLICATION
Two of James’ former teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, have been cited as possible landing spots for the 41-year-old four-time NBA champion. In a statement posted on social media, James said his decision hinged on his pursuit of a fifth NBA title.
James wrote to
“I believe I can help the Philadelphia 76ers become a championship team, and I’m excited to energize a new fan base and begin this incredible journey one last time. Thank you, LA. I will forever love Miami and Northeast Ohio will always be home!”
Follow Fox News Digital Sports streaming on Xand subscribe Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.
