Rookie treatment is a long-standing tradition in the NBA, where first-year players get teased or put through lighthearted challenges. You might think being LeBron James’ son would spare Bronny James from that treatment—but think again.
LeBron hilariously gave his own son the classic rookie experience during the Lakers’ recent game against the Suns. He totally broke his usual dad character, proving that even Bronny isn’t safe from the playful rules of the game.
During the Los Angeles Lakers’ 107-96 win over the Phoenix Suns, LeBron James treated his son Bronny like any other rookie. LeBron forced Bronny to get up and move from his seat as he made his way to the bench to sit.
Bronny had to sit on the floor for the rest of the game. This moment showed that even though Bronny is LeBron’s son, he’s not getting any special treatment with the Lakers.
LeBron came and took Bronny’s seat and made him sit on the floor 😭
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) March 16, 2025
(via @LADEig) pic.twitter.com/PpmzwqydhY
Bronny didn’t get any playing time in this game, as some players returned from injury, like Luka Dončić and Jaxson Hayes. However, his time with the Lakers’ G-League team is helping him improve, and he’s constantly working on getting better.
Oh, by the way, this is not the first time Bronny James got a rookie treatment. Anthony Davis also once did the same with the young star.
Anthony Davis made Bronny James give up his seat for him
During the Lakers’ 107-98 win over the Trail Blazers last December, Anthony Davis reminded Bronny about being a rookie. When Davis came to the bench, Bronny James was sitting next to LeBron. Davis made Bronny give up his seat, as rookies have to do for senior players in the NBA.
Anthony Davis on taking Bronny’s seat:
— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) December 9, 2024
“He didn’t have to move to the end. I told him he can just sit on his dad’s lap instead.”
(Via @jovanbuha) pic.twitter.com/MLxwn8geKW
LeBron James didn’t seem bothered by it at all. In fact, he was laughing along as Davis gave Bronny the “rookie treatment.” LeBron knows this is just a lighthearted tradition, not bullying, and it’s all part of being a rookie.
