On Monday, during the Los Angeles Lakers’ media day, LeBron James and Bronny James had an unusual interview together. LeBron James had long talked about playing with his boys. Already, he and Bronny James had created history as the NBA’s first father-son team to play together. 

Though it’s unclear if Lakers head coach JJ Redick would start both of them together, the James brothers have been sparring throughout practices. LeBron James scored on his son during a scrimmage, according to a recent statement from Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka. Later, on his Instagram Story, the 39-year-old legend discussed it and said, “great defence but better offence.”

In their Spectrum SportsNet interview, 19-year-old Bronny James responded to his father’s disparaging remarks.

The rookie guard added, “In all seriousness, I watched the tape, and he did step out of bounds.” “But I’m not gonna go there right now.” “What do you mean you won’t go there?” LeBron answered. “You just went there!” 

The Lakers’ No. 55 overall pick, Bronny James, continued their friendly back-and-forth after his father’s accusation that he had stopped him during an out-of-bounds play. “He slapped my entire arm, which was a foul as well,” grinned Bronny James. “But I’m not gonna get that call right now.” 

Putting all of the fun aside, the University of Southern California product has some significant work ahead of it. He aspires to demonstrate to everyone that he is deserving of his team slot. 

LeBron James, on the other hand, will have to reconcile his dual roles as a teammate and a father while treading carefully, especially because he can be a strict leader. On Saturday, the Lakers will play their first preseason game against the Phoenix Suns.