Bronny James, eldest son of NBA star LeBron James, makes his basketball debut for the University of Southern California less than five months after suffering cardiac arrest
Bronny James, eldest son of NBA star LeBron James, makes his basketball debut for the University of Southern California less than five months after suffering cardiac arrest AFP

Bronny James, the 19-year-old son of NBA superstar LeBron James, made his collegiate basketball debut Sunday less than five months after suffering cardiac arrest during practice.

With his famous father sitting courtside and catching the action on his cellphone, Bronny James came off the bench in the first half of the University of Southern California's 84-79 overtime loss to Long Beach State.

James played 16 minutes, scoring four points with three rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block.

He was given medical approval to return to basketball activities in November and returned to training with his USC teammates shortly thereafter.

James, a prized high school prospect closely scrutinized because of his father, opted to play for USC in May.

But at a July workout he collapsed and was hospitalized for three days. His family revealed in August that he had been diagnosed with and treated for a congenital heart defect.

Bronny James didn't take questions from reporters after the game, but said he was "thankful for everything."

He thanked the staff at the Mayo Clinic, his family and his coaches for supporting him "at this hard time in my life."

The Galen Center in downtown Los Angeles was packed, with LeBron James making his entrance to courtside seats accompanied by daughter Zhuri and son Bryce, who plays basketball for Sierra Canyon high school.

Bronny James got a standing ovation when he entered the game with 12:58 remaining in the first half. He missed his only shot in the half but drew a roar with a chase-down block that evoked the moves of his famous father.

He scored his first points with a second-half three-pointer that again had fans, including his dad, on their feet.

On Thursday, LeBron James had said his son's return to the court meant "everything and more."

"I can't wait to see him run out with his teammates," James said. "And then once he checks into the game, whenever that case may be, it's going to be a big moment for our family.

"It's a big milestone for our family, for sure, and it's another step for him on his journey in his basketball career."

Dwyane Wade, who teamed up with LeBron James to win two NBA titles in Miami, noted the moment on X, formerly Twitter.

"Watching Bronny walk out on that court gave me chills," Wade posted. "Welcome back to the game you love, Bronny"

Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns also offered a shout-out, posting "Welcome back Bronny."