PALM DESERT, Calif. — Approximately 125 miles east of Los Angeles, in front of 9,494 fans at Acrisure Arena, home to the Coachella Valley Firebirds, a minor league hockey team, a historic event took place.

LeBron James and his son Bronny stepped onto the court together Sunday night during the second quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason game against the Phoenix Suns.

This made them the first father-son pair to play in the NBA together.

And it just so happened to be Bronny’s 20th birthday.

“It’s definitely a moment that I’ll never forget,” LeBron expressed.

However, Bronny appeared more focused than thrilled after the game.

“There’s a lot going on, and I just want to concentrate on my role and responsibilities,’’ Bronny stated. “That’s what keeps me grounded.”

During the four minutes that they played side by side, Bronny’s performance wasn’t what he had hoped for. He had three turnovers, one offensive foul, and missed his only shot — a 3-pointer that LeBron had assisted him on.

On the other hand, LeBron had a productive stretch, hitting a 3-pointer, a layup, and converting a free throw after getting fouled, while also collecting two rebounds. He would have enjoyed the assist had Bronny made the shot.

“Only took one shot, so not much to say about that,’’ Bronny reflected about his missed attempt. “But yeah, just trying to find where I fit in and give it my all.”

Bronny’s final stats were disappointing: he went scoreless, took just that one shot, and recorded two rebounds and four turnovers in 13 minutes. In the earlier preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, he scored two points on 1-for-6 shooting with three blocks, a rebound, an assist, and a turnover.

Following the Lakers’ 118-114 loss to the Suns, those individual stats felt minor compared to the significance of the evening to LeBron.

It’s worth noting that just over a year ago, Bronny experienced a cardiac arrest.

“After what he went through last year, he kept working hard and put himself in the position to be considered for the draft. It’s a continuous journey,” LeBron remarked. “He wants to keep improving and learning, and he does that every day. It was wonderful to witness.”

As for LeBron, soon to turn 40 this December, he looked remarkably younger, having missed the Lakers’ first preseason game. He scored 19 points on 8-of-12 shooting, along with five rebounds and four assists in just 16 minutes of play.

Nonetheless, those numbers took a backseat when he was asked about the experience of playing alongside his oldest son.

“It’s pretty cool for both of us, especially for our family,’’ LeBron shared. “It’s a special moment. I just think of (LeBron’s wife) Savannah watching from home and how our entire extended family feels.”

When discussing what it meant to him as a father, LeBron reflected on growing up without a father in Akron, Ohio.

“For me as a father… it means everything,’’ he noted. “Coming from a background without that figure, being able to influence my kids and share those moments with my son is one of the greatest things a father could wish for.”

Despite the historic moment, Bronny remained focused on his basketball journey and fitting into the team, especially under the guidance of first-year Lakers coach J.J. Redick.

“J.J. has really emphasized solid defense, so that’s what I’ve been concentrating on when I’m on the court,” he said.

Before the game, he received a special message from Redick: that this event would be the night for father and son to share the experience together on the court.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of this,” Redick commented. “It highlights LeBron’s remarkable longevity and competitiveness in year 22 of his NBA career.”

“It recognizes the effort Bronny has put in to reach this point, along with the love and support from both his parents. Bronny is an amazing kid, and it’s a joy to be around him.”

And regarding that shot Bronny attempted, Redick added, “I really wished that 3-pointer had gone in. That would have been an awesome moment. But I’m sure they will have plenty of moments together in the future.”

(This story has been updated with new information.)