EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — On Monday, during the Los Angeles Lakers media day, Bronny James found himself in the midst of a radio interview when he spotted the photographer snapping pictures of him.

It turned out to be his father.

Yes, LeBron James.

“It was just surreal, honestly, just trying to absorb everything,” Bronny expressed to the media. “It’s a lot to take in.”

This situation is one of a kind—a father and son playing for the same NBA franchise. Especially considering that the father is not only a four-time NBA champion but also the league’s all-time top scorer.

As practices commence on Tuesday and preseason begins on Friday, LeBron “Bronny” James Jr. and LeBron James Sr. are starting their journey together.

“Definitely not,” Bronny replied with a grin when asked if he intended to share a ride with his dad to practice. “We’ve already been grouped together enough, so I’m looking to keep my distance from that guy as much as I can.”

However, it’s interesting to contrast this with LeBron’s remarks about how he’s been in the NBA longer than Bronny has been alive.

LeBron, who is now 39 years old, debuted in the NBA in 2003. Bronny will celebrate his 20th birthday this Sunday, having been born just a month before LeBron’s second season in the league.

LeBron James embraces a long-held dream

For many years, LeBron has envisioned playing alongside his eldest son in the NBA. That dream is now beginning to take shape, although it comes with its own set of challenges.

“As a parent, especially at my age and his age, we don’t interact much day-to-day,” LeBron commented. “He’ll come down, eat something and retreat to his room to play video games.

“Meanwhile, I’m downstairs with my wife watching a movie, and he might stop by. There aren’t scheduled discussions like, ‘Hey, meet me at five to discuss work.’”

That dynamic, however, is likely to change.

LeBron and Bronny have already been practicing against each other during the league’s voluntary training sessions.

“It’s an absolute joy,” LeBron said, “to show up at work every day, put in the effort with my son, and observe his growth. We challenge each other—he motivates me, and in turn, I motivate him. It’s a wonderfully happy time for both of us and our family.”

LeBron did not indicate whether he believes Bronny will be with the Lakers for the entire season or if he will also join the team’s G-League affiliate.

“Regardless of being with us or developing with the G-League team, his focus should be to improve and grow, just like the rest of us,” he said. “His responsibility is to put in the effort and keep getting better. We want to hold him to that standard.”

Bronny acknowledges the skeptics

Even if he’s not keen on commuting with his father, Bronny is still thrilled about being on the same team as him.

“I’m really looking forward to practice, especially competing against each other,” Bronny shared. “It’s a wild experience to practice with your dad at such a high level, but it can be quite daunting having to face off with LeBron every day.”

As a second-round pick for the Lakers this year, Bronny understands that some doubters question whether he belongs in the NBA alongside the legacy of his father.

He plans to maintain his usual routine and stay true to himself while also blocking out negativity from those who feel he shouldn’t be there, focusing instead on improving his skills in the gym.

“I strive to be myself every day and pursue what I love, just like I have since childhood,” he said. “It’s crucial for me to ignore the criticism while working hard to better myself every day.”

The experience of watching LeBron and Bronny together is incredible

Anthony Davis, a standout player for the Lakers, mentioned that his locker is positioned right across from Bronny’s.

“So every time I walk in, it’s just astonishing to see him playing on the same team as his father,” Davis noted. “I get to witness every practice, every game, every special moment they share during this first year.”

“I can’t wait to see them step onto the court together.”

Although it might officially mark a historical moment, watching it unfold has been incredibly exciting so far.

Things could get even more interesting. A journalist pointed out to Bronny that LeBron has prohibited using the word “dad” during Lakers training sessions.

“I really haven’t thought about it,” Bronny replied with a smile. “Whatever just comes to mind when I’m talking to him is what he’s going to roll with.”