Bronny James vs LeBron James NBA2K Debut: Comparing father-son duo's first-ever ratings
LeBron James and his son Bronny James will make history in the 2024-25 season as the first father-son duo to simultaneously play in the NBA. There have been such tandems in the league before but never at the same time, let alone as teammates. The LA Lakers drafted James Jr. No. 55, allowing both to etch their names in the record books.
While the season will not start until Oct. 22, basketball fans can spend time playing the uber-popular NBA 2K video. The Visual Concepts-produced game released the most recent player ratings on Friday. Many promptly checked the Jameses’ figures in the uber-popular hoops video game.
LeBron James had a higher debut rating on NBA 2K than his son Bronny James
Coming into the 2003 NBA draft, LeBron James was considered the most hyped high school basketball player ever. The Hollywood-style script for James’ leap to the pro ranks started with the Cleveland Cavaliers picking him No. 1 overall. It meant that the Akron, Ohio native would become the franchise’s savior.
Despite all the hype, NBA 2K gave the former St.Vincent-St. Mary High School superstar a modest overall rating of 78. The rating seemed a little too low as he won the Rookie of the Year award over Carmelo Anthony. “The Chosen One” averaged 20.9 points, 5.9 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game.
Bronny James isn’t as highly touted as his father but is arguably under more intense scrutiny. NBA 2K25 gave him a 68 overall rating in his maiden appearance in the video game. The figure isn’t surprising considering James' struggles at USC and in the Summer League. Many don’t see him even worthy of an NBA spot, contending that if not for his father, no team might have drafted him.
James Jr. is expected to spend most of his rookie season in the G League. But, he and LeBron James will get their historic moment of sharing the court at some point. Only time will tell, though, if the younger James’ rating is too high, too low, or spot-on.
Even in video game ratings, Bronny James has some big shoes to follow
After getting a 78 in his rookie year, LeBron James’ 2K rating went up to 88 in his second season. Since then, he hasn’t received a grade below 94. “King James” is again the oldest player next season but his 96 overall rating might even be a little low.
In real life or a video game, Bronny James has some big shoes to follow. The LA Lakers will be ecstatic if he can reach 80 at some point in his career with them.