LeBron James, known for his on-court dominance, is now exploring his coaching side during the NBA offseason. The four-time NBA champion was recently seen on the sidelines offering guidance to his 16-year-old son, Bryce, who plays for the Strive For Greatness team, co-coached by James and his former teammate, Rajon Rondo.
The team competed against New Heights Lightning in the prestigious Peach Jam tournament, part of the Nike EYBL circuit held in Augusta, Georgia. This event is one of the most elite high school basketball competitions in the country, drawing in teams backed by top athletes like Bradley Beal, Chris Paul, and Carmelo Anthony.
LeBron was visibly animated, passionately celebrating from the sidelines as his team clawed back from a 10-point deficit to force overtime. With 27 points from Brayden Burries, Strive For Greatness secured a thrilling win under LeBron’s coaching. Their current tournament record stands at two wins and one loss.
The team opened with a 78-69 win over Expressions, followed by a narrow 72-67 defeat to the Florida Rebels before bouncing back with the overtime victory against the Lightning.
Bryce, who recently received his first Division I offer from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, is reportedly set to transfer from Sierra Canyon to Campbell Hall to further his basketball career. Like his father, Bryce is following the path of basketball, while his older brother, Bronny James, is considered a top prospect for the 2024 NBA Draft and is set to play for USC in the upcoming season.
Joining Bryce at Campbell Hall are other notable athletes’ sons, including Baron Bellamy, the son of comedian Bill Bellamy, and Richard Hamilton II, the son of former NBA star Richard Hamilton. David Grace, Campbell Hall’s head coach, is thrilled to have the opportunity to help Bryce grow as a player.
“If I get the chance to coach Bryce, I want him to be himself,” Grace told ESPN. “That’s what makes him special, and I want to help him reach his full potential at Campbell Hall. It’s not just about what I can teach him; it’s about supporting him in his journey. I can relate to some of the challenges he faces, and I aim to use that experience to guide him.”
Bronny, Bryce’s older brother, chose to join USC and will wear number six, just like his father. LeBron expressed his pride following Bronny’s decision to attend college close to home after four years at Sierra Canyon.
“One of the proudest moments of my life,” LeBron said about Bronny’s acceptance to USC. “He’s the first in our family to go to college. It was a special day, and no matter what happened in the game, I couldn’t afford to lose that feeling.”
As LeBron continues to guide his sons both on and off the court, his transition into coaching showcases his unwavering commitment to his family and his passion for nurturing the next generation of basketball talent