The 54th pick was announced. The Lakers were now on the clock. Pelinka, seated next to Redick, called Paul, who put Bronny on the phone.
“Bronny, you got Rob Pelinka here, Coach Redick,” he said. “I think first and foremost, you’ve worked incredibly hard, man. You’ve put in a ton of work…that means a lot to us.
“I think second to that, you’re a player of high character, and a person of high character, and that is valued at the Lakers. And so, it’s important for Coach Redick and I to let you know that those qualities really stand out. And so, the Lakers are gonna draft you with the 55th pick in the draft, and I just wanted to let you know.”
Redick leaned over.
“Bronny, this is JJ. I just wanted to say congrats, man. Your hard work has paid off, you’re gonna have a long NBA career, and I can’t wait to coach you, man. Congrats.”
“Thank you, Coach,” Bronny said. “Appreciate it, Coach.”
“We’ll see you soon, Bronny,” Pelinka said. “The work begins.”
“Yes, sir,” he said.
Pelinka hung up. Everyone in the room applauded.
After hearing NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum announce the pick on TV, LeBron’s family and closest friends, watching together in Manhattan, did the same. Savannah handed Bronny a Lakers hat. Tears streamed down his cheeks.
One week later, LeBron, after declining his player option, signed a new one-plus-one deal with the Lakers.
During training camp, LeBron looked happier than he had in years. He made Bronny wear a holographic backpack as part of the team’s rookie hazing. After practices, he and Bronny worked together, getting up extra shots.
“Just pure joy, to be honest,” LeBron told reporters in September. “To be able to come to work every day, put in the hard work with your son every day and see him continue to grow.”
