LeBron James coaches up son Bronny after bad pass during Lakers game

The Lakers star had to balance his roles as player and father during the game.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:32am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the intense energy and emotion of LeBron James coaching his son Bronny on the basketball court, their figures dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes.A father-son coaching moment during an intense NBA game showcases the unique challenges LeBron James faces balancing his superstar status and parental role.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James had to balance his player status with his dad status on Sunday night after an erratic pass from his son and Lakers teammate Bronny James during their game against the Dallas Mavericks. James was seen coaching up Bronny on the sideline after the mistake.

Why it matters

This moment highlights the unique challenges LeBron faces as both an NBA superstar and a father playing alongside his son. It also shows the close relationship between the two and LeBron's commitment to developing Bronny's skills, even in the middle of an intense NBA game.

The details

During the Lakers' game against the Mavericks, Bronny James made an erratic pass that led to a turnover. LeBron was seen on the sideline coaching up his son, gesturing and talking to him intensely about the play. Despite being teammates, LeBron maintains a mentor-mentee dynamic with Bronny as he guides the younger player's development.

  • The incident occurred during the Lakers' game against the Maverons on April 6, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A 41-year-old NBA superstar playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, and the father of his teammate Bronny James.

Bronny James

The 21-year-old son of LeBron James, who is also a player on the Lakers roster.

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What they’re saying

“LeBron was really getting after Bronny there. You could tell he was trying to coach him up and get him right.”

— Cory Woodroof, Writer

The takeaway

This moment showcases the unique dynamic between LeBron James and his son Bronny as they navigate playing together in the NBA. It highlights LeBron's commitment to developing Bronny's skills while also maintaining his role as a superstar player, demonstrating the challenges of balancing family and professional responsibilities at the highest level of the sport.