Ron Harper Sr. Takes Shot at LeBron James Over Sons' NBA Paths

Harper Sr. says he won't dictate his kids' careers like LeBron has with his sons.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In a recent interview, former NBA player Ron Harper Sr. took a shot at LeBron James when asked about his sons Ron Harper Jr. and Dylan Harper following in his footsteps to the NBA. Harper Sr. said, "I'm not LeBron James, I'm not going to tell my kids what they have to do," seemingly criticizing James' approach of guiding his sons Bronny and Bryce into the league.

Why it matters

The comments highlight an ongoing debate around the role parents, especially famous athletes, should play in directing their children's careers. While LeBron has been open about his desire to play in the NBA with his sons, Harper Sr.'s remarks suggest a more hands-off approach, allowing his kids to forge their own paths.

The details

Ron Harper Jr. has carved out an NBA career with the Boston Celtics after a standout college career at Rutgers, while Dylan Harper was the 2nd overall pick in this year's draft by the San Antonio Spurs. Harper Sr. was asked if he expected his sons to follow in his footsteps, to which he responded with the shot at LeBron's parenting style.

  • In a recent interview in February 2026

The players

Ron Harper Sr.

Former NBA player and father of Ron Harper Jr. and Dylan Harper.

Ron Harper Jr.

NBA player for the Boston Celtics, son of Ron Harper Sr.

Dylan Harper

2nd overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs, son of Ron Harper Sr.

LeBron James

NBA superstar who has been vocal about his desire to play in the NBA with his sons Bronny and Bryce.

Bronny James

LeBron James' eldest son, who was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not LeBron James I'm not going to tell my kids what they have to do.”

— Ron Harper Sr., Former NBA player (on3.com)

“Yooo”

— Ron Harper Jr. and Dylan Harper (on3.com)

What’s next

The comments from Ron Harper Sr. have sparked further discussion about the appropriate role parents should play in their children's professional sports careers.

The takeaway

This exchange highlights the ongoing debate around how much influence famous athletes should have over their children's paths, with Harper Sr. taking a more hands-off approach compared to LeBron James' vocal involvement in his sons' basketball futures.