Ex-NBA star DeMarcus Cousins has informed LeBron James that rivals do not think the Los Angeles Lakers are “serious anymore” after icon’s son Bronny was drafted.

The former USC guard was selected as the 55th overall pick in the 2024 Draft after a single college season with the Trojans following his cardiac arrest in 2023. After making his recovery from a major health scare, he made 25 appearances in the NCAA – tallying up an average of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

The Lakers’ decision to draft the 20-year-old meant that Bronny and LeBron have earned a unique place in NBA history as the league’s first ever father-son duo. The pair even shared a court earlier this month, playing together in the preseason clash versus the Phoenix Suns.

However, the call to select the youngster has proven divisive within the football community, with four-time NBA All-Star Cousins among the naysayers who are unsure of the player’s merits. He told FanDuel TV’s Run it Back: “I take it as a move as, I don’t really think the Lakers are serious anymore.

“I love everything that it stands for, I think what Bron is doing with his legacy and just as a businessman and everything that comes with that, I think it’s a beautiful thing,” he said, as he tried to give a balanced opinion on the matter, before adding: “I think it’s really really dope.

“But as far as the Lakers actually competing. I don’t know. I take that as a sign that they aren’t really serious. With the way their season ended last year with the high expectations, I expected more from them as far as making moves.”

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The decision of the Lakers to draft Bronny James, the son of LeBron James, has been the subject of debate

The decision of the Lakers to draft Bronny James, the son of LeBron James, has been the subject of debate ( 

Image:

Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

Either way, the pride of LeBron was plain to see after appearing alongside his boy in preseason. Reflecting on the experience, he said: “Wow that was surreal. We came out of a timeout and we kind of stood next to each other. I kind of looked at him. It was like being in The Matrix or something. It just didn’t feel real. But it was great to have those moments.”

The elder James continued: “For a father, it means everything. For someone who didn’t have that growing up, to be able to have that influence on your kids and have influence on your son. Be able to have moments with your son. And ultimately, to be able to work with your son. I think that’s one of the greatest things that a father can ever hope for or wish for.”

Meanwhile, Lakers coach JJ Redick said: “Just wanted to get them a chance to play together in preseason, within the flow of the game. I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of this. I really am. It’s cool as a basketball fan. I think it speaks to LeBron’s longevity, but also his competitive stamina that he’s able to still be doing this in year 22.

“It speaks to the work that Bronny has put in to get to this point and really just the fatherly care and love, and certainly the motherly care from Savannah as well. Bronny’s such a great kid and he’s a pleasure to be around.”