They've been waiting for this moment for more than three months, and it's done: LeBron James And Bronny James presented themselves together to the American press. It was one of the events of the day, and the 2024 Olympic champion appeared more relaxed than ever, ready to attack his 22nd career season.
“I feel very good. I had a great summer” he said. “I feel very good physically. Mentally, I feel very good. I'm very sharp. Very fresh. I can't wait to get to work tomorrow. I haven't thought about what the future holds for me. I live in the present moment. Especially with Bronny around. I don't want to take this moment for granted. »
Enjoy the present moment
Same enthusiasm from his son, whose jersey is adorned with the number 9 and a “James Jr.”. “It’s a crazy feeling!” … As I watched my dad take photos, I thought, “What is happening right now?” » That's literally what I had in mind, and I just absorbed it all. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity given to me. »
An opportunity that will first come through the G-League. For the record, JJ Redick will probably line them up on the first night, but Bronny knows that the rest will take place on the lower floor. “I know I won't be immediately integrated into the rotation. So I accepted this role and I am improving every day. I learn from the veterans and those who are going to play a lot of minutes. I have no problem hanging back and learning for the first couple of years and then progressing from there. »
LeBron still has “a lot in the tank”
On his father's side, the Olympic Games gave him a second youth. Or maybe even a third as it seems stainless. It's the fact of playing “two Games 7 in a row” in Paris, at almost 40 years old, that gives him this incredible performance.
“I felt very good playing high-stakes basketball”he explains. “Going out on the field at my age, with the miles I've put in, and being able to play at the level I played at, it made me feel even more like I still had some left in the tank. A lot. And I can help a lot of the team achieve the ultimate victory, whether it's gold or the Larry O'Brien Trophy. Whatever it is, I can still do it. »
Motivation increased tenfold by the presence of Bronny: “Honestly, it's pure joy to be able to come to work every day, to give your all to your son every day, and to be able to see him continue to grow. It gives you a lot of life. »
