That history made it natural for some to wonder whether the James family would want that connection to continue.
But Rich Paul, the 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.
"They are not a package deal," Paul told ESPN. The report added there is "no current plan or request for Bronny Janes to join his father."
All signs now point to the Lakers keeping Bronny James in Los Angeles and allowing him to continue developing under head coach JJ Redick. The backcourt will be led by Luka Dončić, with Austin Reaves expected to remain a key piece.
Bronny will also have several young players and offseason additions around him as the Lakers reshape the roster. Adou Thiero and Dalton Knecht are set to return, while center Walker Kessler and free-agent additions Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton could also factor into the rotation.
Bronny appeared in 42 games last season, an increase from the 27 times he played at the NBA level during his rookie campaign. He averaged 2.9 points per game in 2025-26.
Two of James’ former teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, had been floated as possible landing spots for the 41-year-old, four-time NBA champion. James said in a statement posted to social media that his decision came down to his pursuit of a fifth NBA title.
"This is my last decision. I’m not going for money. I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship," James wrote on X.
"I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time. Thank you LA. Miami I’ll forever love and Northeast Ohio will always home!"
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