Lakers' LeBron James 'Super Excited' for Bronny's USC Debut After 1st Full Practice

LeBron James can't wait for Sunday when his son, Bronny, could make his debut for USC's basketball team.

The Los Angeles Lakers star told reporters on Thursday he's "super excited" for the moment he can watch Bronny run out of the tunnel with his teammates and it will "be a big moment for our family" when he eventually checks into the game.

USC head coach Andy Enfield told reporters on Thursday that Bronny went through his first full-contact practice and will have to practice again on Friday before a final determination is made about his status for Sunday's matchup with Long Beach State.

A James family spokesperson announced on Nov. 30 that Bronny received clearance for a full return to basketball activities.

The announcement came nearly four months to the date that Bronny suffered a cardiac arrest during a practice session with the Trojans and was transported to a local hospital. The family revealed in August the issue was likely caused by a congenital heart defect that was identified after multiple evaluations.

Bronny James committed to USC and signed his letter of intent in May. He was ranked as the No. 28 overall prospect in the 2023 recruiting class, per 247Sports.

LeBron told reporters last week he would miss a Lakers game if it took place on the same day as Bronny's first game.

Fortunately for the Lakers, there will be no conflict if it happens on Sunday. Los Angeles is scheduled to play the Indiana Pacers in the championship game of the NBA In-Season Tournament on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

USC and Long Beach State will play at the Galen Center on Sunday at 4 p.m. ET. The Lakers and Trojans don't play on the same day again until Dec. 28.