LeBron would skip Lakers game to watch Bronny's USC debut

LeBron James said he'd miss playing in a game for the Los Angeles Lakers if it coincided with his son Bronny James' debut for USC.

The 19-year-old was medically cleared by doctors for a full return to playing basketball after suffering a cardiac arrest in late July. Bronny will have an evaluation with USC staff this week and return to practice next week before participating in games for the Trojans.

"I already told my teammates that if (Bronny plays) on the same day we're playing, I'm going to have to catch them the next game," LeBron said after the Lakers' loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin. "Family over everything. ... But definitely got to see Bronny's first game whenever he's cleared and ready to go."

Here are the dates the Trojans play on the same day as the Lakers until the end of January, excluding Saturday's contest against Gonzaga.

LeBron called Bronny's progression toward a full return "a proud moment."

"Big-time excitement from our family for Bronny. And for USC, as well," he said. "It's something that he's been working towards for the last 12 weeks. And for him to get the clearance to do what he loves to do and go back to being with his teammates and put on a uniform and things of that nature, it's pretty gratifying for sure."

The Lakers star dedicated his 21st NBA season to his son in October.

Bronny underwent an evaluation in August that determined his cardiac arrest was likely caused by a congenital heart defect. Since then, he started attending classes at USC and participated in pregame warmups before a matchup earlier in November.

"It's amazing, man," said Lakers coach Darvin Ham. "I'm so happy for him and their family."