Bronny James, the son of NBA legend LeBron James, was rushed to the hospital on Monday after experiencing a cardiac arrest during a basketball practice at the University of Southern California, according to a statement from a family spokesperson. Fortunately, the 18-year-old is now in stable condition and has been moved out of the intensive care unit.
The James family has requested privacy during this challenging time, and they extend their heartfelt appreciation to the USC medical and athletic staff for their swift and dedicated response in treating Bronny.
Bronny, a highly-touted incoming freshman for USC’s basketball team, recently graduated from Sierra Canyon High School in Los Angeles. As a 6-foot-3 combo guard, he showcased immense talent and was rated a four-star recruit, impressing basketball enthusiasts during the McDonald’s All-American Game in March.
During his senior year of high school, Bronny averaged an impressive 14.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.7 steals. His inclusion in USC’s basketball team adds promise to their pursuit of an NCAA Tournament appearance for the fourth consecutive time.
LeBron James, who is about to enter his 21st NBA season and sixth with the Los Angeles Lakers, has long expressed his desire to play alongside his son in the NBA. He envisions his final year in the league being a joint journey with Bronny, emphasizing that it’s not about the money, but the chance to share the court with his son.
Cardiac arrest, the sudden stoppage of the heart’s beating caused by electrical disturbances, can be a life-threatening condition if not promptly treated. However, with CPR and defibrillation, it can sometimes be reversed, as emphasized by the American Heart Association. Annually, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the US.
USC’s medical staff has previously faced such incidents, notably with freshman forward Vince Iwuchukwu, who suffered a cardiac arrest during a summer workout last year. The athletic trainers’ prompt response and life-saving efforts helped Iwuchukwu make a remarkable recovery, returning to the court in January after months of recuperation.
As the sports world rallies behind Bronny and the James family, thoughts and prayers pour in, hoping for a swift recovery and a successful return to the basketball court for the young athlete. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of prompt medical attention and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.