Bronny James, the eldest son of NBA star LeBron James, was hospitalized on Monday after suffering a cardiac arrest during basketball practice at the University of Southern California (USC), according to a statement from a family spokesperson. The statement confirmed that Bronny is now in stable condition and has been moved out of the intensive care unit.
The statement also expressed the James family’s gratitude to the USC medical and athletic staff for their dedication and excellent work in treating Bronny. The 18-year-old basketball player is an incoming freshman for USC’s basketball team, having recently graduated from Sierra Canyon High School in Los Angeles. He is known as a talented combo guard and was rated a four-star recruit. His senior year of high school showcased his skills, with an average of 14.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.
LeBron James, who will be entering his 21st NBA season and his sixth season with the Los Angeles Lakers, has previously expressed his desire to play in the NBA alongside his son. He stated that his final goal is to be able to play with Bronny, who will be eligible for the NBA next year.
Cardiac arrest is a condition where the heart stops beating due to electrical disturbances. Immediate treatment is crucial, and it can be reversed through CPR and shocks from a defibrillator. While sudden cardiac arrest among young athletes is rare, it has occurred in the past. The NCAA released guidelines recommending the creation and practice of an emergency action plan for sudden cardiac arrest.
The USC medical staff has dealt with similar incidents before. Last July, USC freshman forward Vince Iwuchukwu also suffered a cardiac arrest during a summer workout but ultimately recovered and made his basketball debut in January.
Other athletes, such as Damar Hamlin of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, have also experienced cardiac arrests but have been able to recover and return to their respective sports.
The James family has requested respect and privacy during this time, and further updates will be provided when available.
