The Los Angeles Lakers announced that Bronny James will be joining the team, following his selection as the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. He will wear the No. 9 jersey in purple and gold, a number that holds special significance for him and his family.
During his high school career at Sierra Canyon, James wore No. 0, and during his one college season at USC, he wore No. 6. The No. 6 was a nod to his father’s former jersey number, but it is no longer available in the NBA due to its retirement in honor of Bill Russell. LeBron currently wears No. 23 for the Lakers.
Bronny is joining a small group of 15 players who have worn the No. 9 jersey for the Lakers, which includes names like Nick Van Exel, Matt Barnes, Luol Deng, and Rajon Rondo. Van Exel expressed excitement about Bronny adopting his former number.
Another Lakers draft pick, Dalton Knecht, will be wearing the No. 4 jersey after being selected 17th overall out of Tennessee. Knecht’s name pronunciation (“connect”) provides an easy pun that adds some levity to the situation.
Bronny James enters the NBA with a unique opportunity as part of the league’s first on-court father-son duo. Despite his college basketball struggles at USC, there is a lot of potential for him to prove himself and make history alongside his dad.
The selection of Bronny James was viewed more as a result of his father’s involvement rather than a purely basketball-related decision.
In summary, Bronny James will be making history when he takes the floor with his father LeBron and the Los Angeles Lakers by wearing the No. 9 jersey in purple and gold with “James Jr.” on back.