USC men’s basketball will begin its 2023/24 campaign on November 6, and it sounds like Bronny James might be with the team but won’t play. LeBron offered an encouraging update on his 18-year-old son during Los Angeles Lakers Media Day on Monday.
Bronny, a five-star recruit in the college basketball recruiting Class of 2023, committed to the Trojans back in May. He later suffered cardiac arrest during a team workout in July and was rushed to the hospital. USC’s medical staff was commended for their quick response to the scene, which may have saved his life.
Bronny spent three days in the hospital following the incident, and his family later stated that a congenital heart defect was likely the cause. They also believed that the condition could be treated.
Although Bronny has not jet rejoined the team — which began practice last week — he is on campus in Los Angeles for classes. He was also in attendance at a recent USC football home game with his teammates, and was on the VIP list for last weekend’s game at Colorado.
As of right now, a timeline for Bronny’s return to the court is unclear. However, his father said that he underwent “successful surgery” and will continue to work to get back as soon as possible.
Bronny James hopes to play this year.
LeBron said that Bronny will be on the floor this season. That is the plan, at least.
Bronny is doing extremely well. He has begun his rehab process to get back on the floor this season with his teammates at USC. The successful surgery that he had […] he’s on the up and up. It’s definitely a whirlwind and a lot of emotions for our family this summer but the best thing we have is each other.
— LeBron James at Lakers Media Day
The James family had a difficult summer, but they are encouraged with Bronny’s recovery.
We stuck behind each other and gave Bronny strength throughout the whole process. We’re happy to see where he is today. We look forward to seeing what his future still has in store for him.
— LeBron James at Lakers Media Day
The Trojans open their season in Las Vegas with a neutral site game against the Kansas State Wildcats. They will return home to host CSU Bakersfield, UC Irvine and Brown from Nov. 9-19.
It is unclear as to when Bronny might be ready for his debut, but a full recovery is the focus right now.