Bryce James, LeBron's son, to redshirt freshman year at Arizona

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Bryce James, the youngest son of NBA superstar LeBron James, will redshirt his freshman season at the University of Arizona, head coach Tommy Lloyd announced on Tuesday. The 6-foot-5 guard has yet to appear in a game for the top-ranked Wildcats this year, and Lloyd cited the need to allow James more time to physically mature and learn the team's system.

Why it matters

As the son of one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Bryce James has immense potential and high expectations. The decision to redshirt him for his first year allows the coaching staff to develop him at a pace that maximizes his long-term growth and contribution to the program.

The details

Bryce James was part of a highly touted Arizona recruiting class that also included Koa Peat and Brayden Burries. However, the coaching staff has determined that redshirting James for the 2026-27 season will give him the best opportunity to succeed in the future. "The redshirting decision was just a long play, to give Bryce the most options in his career as his career unfolds," Lloyd said.

• Bryce James arrived at Arizona as part of the 2026 freshman class.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Bryce James will continue to practice and develop with the Arizona team throughout the 2026-27 season, with the goal of contributing as a redshirt freshman in 2027-28.