LAS VEGAS (AP) — USC freshman Bronny James took to the court at T-Mobile Arena in a gray sweatshirt Monday night as his teammates prepared for the opener against Kansas State Warm up.
After the Wildcats finished warming up on the west end of the court, James strolled into the open space, found himself in the corner, drained a long 3-pointer, and then hit a 3-pointer to lead the 21st-ranked Trojans away. .
James suffered a cardiac arrest during summer training and is still recovering.
Bronny’s father, LeBron James, said last month that his son underwent surgery to repair a congenital heart defect that caused the collapse.
“He’s improving,” LeBron James said Monday during the Lakers’ game against the Heat in Miami. “He’s on the right track.”
The timetable for James’ return to the court is unclear, but he is expected to return at some point this season.
LeBron James has long dreamed of one of his sons — Bronny or younger son Bryce, also a rising star — playing alongside him in the NBA. If Bronny James chooses this path, he will be eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft.
James sat at the end of the USC bench with rookie forward Brandon Gardner, who also wore a gray sweatshirt. During every timeout, James was involved in every play, spending more time standing than sitting, cheering on his teammates during the first half, clapping his hands and yelling “Defense!” while sitting with everyone else. On the bench.
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AP Basketball Writer Tim Reynolds contributed to this report
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