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LeBron James‘ son, Bronny James, has been cleared to fully return to play basketball at the University of South California. The news comes following his cardiac arrest earlier this year.
Back in July, the 19-year-old suddenly collapsed on-court during a USC practice game. The practice took place at the Galen Center, necessitating a three-day hospital stay at UCLA.
The following month, it was revealed that Bronny had been diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. The news left many wondering whether he could ever return to the court, and still follow in his dad’s footsteps. However, in a statement shared by the family’s rep, Bronny now has clearance to make a “full return.” He is expected to undergo a final evaluation with USC staffers this week.
“The James family would like to express their gratitude to the incredible medical team,” the statement continued. “The entire USC community, and especially the countless friends, family, and fans for their love and support. Fight On.”
Though the Lakers team had just been defeated by the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, November 30, remained in good spirits. He spoke to reporters about his son’s positive news after the game.
The 38-year-old said that Bronny, who’s eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft, had mainly focused his attention on making a speedy recovery.
He had spent the past 12 weeks working towards getting the clearance to return to basketball, Lebron shared. “And for him to get the clearance to do what he loves to do and go back to being with his teammates and put on a uniform and things of that nature, it’s pretty gratifying,” he added.
While Bronny hasn’t played since his cardiac arrest over the summer, reports claim that he has recently been spotted training with his teammates. An official date for his return has not yet been set.
He’s already said to have missed the start of his freshman year. So there’s no doubt that Bronny wants to be well enough to not only commence his academic year, but also do what he loves most, playing basketball.
He made the personal decision to stay close to home by committing to USC’s Trojans back in May. Later, it was revealed that Bronny had also received offers to join Ohio State and Oregon.
And if Bronny is picked to play for the league during next year’s NBA Draft, he’ll be one step closer to making history. Bronny and LeBron would be the first ever father-son duo playing with or against each other in the NBA. An accomplishment LeBron had previously expressed to be a big dream of his.
