A scholarship, a championship, and a future that’s hard to ignore

• LW

It’s not every day that a 17-year-old saves his billionaire dad nearly half a million dollars. But then again, it’s not every day that you’re talking about Bryce James-the youngest in the most hyped basketball family on Earth.

While Bronny James has been soaking up headlines for playing alongside his dad on the Lakers-a historic, first-ever father-son duo in the NBA-Bryce has been busy building a quieter, arguably more efficient résumé. In a year where Bronny’s health scare and NCAA journey had the world holding its breath, Bryce led Sierra Canyon to a state title, landed a full scholarship to the University of Arizona, and looked every bit like the future star his family name suggests.

Bryce James: Less spotlight, more substance

Bryce’s scholarship is no small deal. According to US Sports Scholarships, a full-ride can be worth up to $400,000 over four years, covering tuition, housing, meals, and books. For any family, that’s a game-changer. For LeBron James-who became the NBA’s first billionaire in 2022 – it’s less about the money and more about the message: Bryce is delivering big without draining the bank.

Contrast that with Bronny’s path. The USC product battled through cardiac arrest, intense media scrutiny, and a tough adjustment to the college game. Now a Laker, Bronny’s living out his father’s dream-but it hasn’t been cheap or easy. Bryce, meanwhile, is rising on a smoother arc.

And now, amid all this, LeBron is starting to speak in retirement tones.

In a recent chat on The Pat McAfee Show, LeBron said, “When I don’t feel like showing up five hours early, or training the same way… you know it’s over.” That quiet reflection hit fans harder than any buzzer-beater.

His numbers are still strong. But the writing’s on the wall, and he knows it.

Still, the legacy is in good hands. Bronny has the NBA nameplate. Bryce has the long game. Between them, they might not just continue LeBron’s empire-they might grow it. The only question now is which NBA team will bet on Bryce first. Because the James dynasty? It’s only getting started.