Bronny James Gets Former Lakers All-Star's Jersey Number

The Los Angeles Lakers made the expected move on Day 2 of the NBA Draft and selected Bronny James with the No. 55 overall pick. The 19-year-old will have the chance to accomplish something historic if he were to suit up with his father on the same team in the 2024-25 regular season.

What the future holds for Bronny remains to be seen as the difficult part of his journey starts now. As a late second-round pick, he has a tough road ahead of him. He will likely get a guaranteed deal with the Lakers but has to earn playing time with his Summer League and preseason performances. He may have to spend some time in the G League before making his professional debut with the Lakers.

Regardless of where his journey takes him next, Bronny will have former Laker greats behind him. One of those names is All-Star guard Nick Van Exel who spent five years with the Lakers in the 1990s. When it was announced today that Bronny was going to wear No. 9, the same jersey number Van Exel donned in his heyday, the former Lakers star couldn't contain his excitement.

Lakers News: Bronny James' Jersey Number Revealed

A Lakers great supporting his fellow Lakers is beautiful to see. Amidst all the unfounded criticism Bronny has been facing over the last 24 hours, seeing Van Exel extend vocal support for the rookie will go a long way.

If Bronny becomes anywhere close to the level of player Van Exel was wearing the No. 9, this selection will go down as one of the best draft picks in Lakers history. Even if Bronny doesn't become a high-level NBA player, seeing the father and son share an NBA court will be a momentous occasion for sports fans everywhere.

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