LeBron James Takes a Sideline Seat, Coffee in Hand, Beside Son Bronny for Lakers Opener
Los Angeles Lakers fans witnessed a rare sight at Tuesday’s NBA season opener: LeBron James on the bench, not the court.
The 40-year-old basketball icon, generally the centerpiece of the Lakers’ starting lineup, missed the clash against the Golden State Warriors due to a sore back issue, reportedly linked to sciatica. His absence was conspicuous, not just on the court, but also in the arena’s energy.
Yet, it wasn’t all disappointment. Sitting beside him was his 21- time-old son, Bronny James, now in his alternate season with the Lakers.
LeBron and Bronny hit the golf course today ⛳️ pic.twitter.com/YDSl6SIDKB
— Bronupdates (@Bronupdates) August 3, 2025
The father-son brace made headlines last time as the first to play together in an NBA game, a moment that shook the sports world.
This time, however, the scene was different. LeBron, dressed sprucely in a black suit, casually belted on a large coffee, watching the action unfold.
Suckers online couldn’t help but joke that he looked more like a pater at a PTA meeting than on the face of the ballot.
“LeBron awkwardly sipped coffee sitting beside Bronny for Lakers NBA opener,” one fan wrote, echoing the collective amusement of social media.
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Off the court, the pair have enjoyed a memorable offseason. From father-son golf outings to family celebrations, including Bronny’s 21st birthday, marked by a touching message from mum, Savannah James, the bond between the two continues to warm hearts.
Indeed, Zhuri, LeBron’s youthful, made swells this summer, showing off her dribbling chops at the NBA Summer League, important to her pater’s delight.
While LeBron James recovers, the Lakers’ operation remains hopeful he’ll make his return by mid-November. His presence, indeed from the bench, continues to inspire both suckers and teammates.
The Lakers’ ambitions this year remain sky-high, with hopes that LeBron and a noticeably leaner Luka Doncic can help push the team toward another championship run. But for now, the King will have to settle for supporting his son, his squad, and his caffeine fix.
Because sometimes, even legends need to take a seat and enjoy their coffee.
