Chris Paul and NBA players react to Lakers signing Bronny James

After all the wild speculation, rumors and reports, Bronny James is now officially a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. He will likely make history by playing on the same team as his father LeBron James, just as everyone has been expecting for months. Rich Paul’s polarizing approach paid off and helped keep the 19-year-old in LA.

Still, it’s pretty surreal that this connection is actually happening. The idea that such a wish could even be fulfilled was unfathomable not long ago. LeBron James’ unparalleled persistence turned a pipe dream into a realistic goal and now a reality.

Many fans take issue with how this process turned out, but the NBA world is celebrating this unprecedented development. “Special!! Congratulations Bronny!” Golden State Warriors point guard and future Hall of Famer Chris Paul posted on X after the Lakers selected the 6’1″ guard with the No. 55 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine focused on the emotional component of the move, marveling at the joyous thought of a father sharing the court with his son. “Imagine being able to play with your son!” the two-time All-Star said. “This is historic. I have two sons myself and I can’t imagine how that would feel.” 10-year NBA veteran CJ Watson echoed that sentiment. “It will be great to play with your son on the big stage,” he wrote.

Of course, this is only the beginning of the flood of reactions.

How the duo LeBron-Bronny James will further strengthen the Lakers brand

Lakers icon Magic Johnson sent his best wishes to Bronny James while doing his part to hype up the USC product.

“Congratulations to Bronny James on being signed by the Los Angeles Lakers!” he said. “This is a historic moment as LeBron and Bronny are the first father-son duo to play in the NBA at the same time and on the same team. Bronny’s performance for the Lakers during the Summer League in Vegas is a must-see!”

The last part of Johnson’s contribution is particularly important for the franchise, the league and the broadcasters. LeBron James is already the face of the NBA, but now that his son is also his teammate, the revenue opportunities are likely to be absurdly high. ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins addressed the intriguing business aspect of the Lakers’ momentous father-son pairing.

“Can you imagine what the Nike campaign with Bron and Bronny will look like?” posted the 2008 champion. “MONUMENTAL.” The sportswear giant is already up and running with its new platform and there are sure to be many more memorable spots to come.

The flip side of this advertising and television boom will be the countless eyes on Bronny James during his rookie season. There will be a long line of people ready to say “I told you so,” and many others eagerly waiting for him to develop into a valuable 3-and-D contributor for a championship-caliber team.

For now, however, the entire James family is no doubt reveling in the excitement and joy of the moment. The Lakers hope this milestone precedes several others.