20 August 2023 , 00:55
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Shaquille O'Neal 's son, Shareef, has confirmed that Bronny James will be fine to continue playing basketball after his cardiac arrest.
The son of LeBron James suffered a cardiac arrest while on the court at the University of Southern California (USC) last month. Bronny committed to play for USC as he continues his journey toward the NBA, and the team happens to be close to his father who plays nearby for the Los Angeles Lakers.
But the 18-year-old was rushed to the hospital after collapsing on the court, leading to fears over his livelihood, and of course his chances of playing in the NBA. Shareef O'Neal has his own experiences when it comes to heart issues, and has assured Bronny that he will be fine to continue.
"He's good. I don't think it will affect anything," Shareef told TMZ when being asked about Bronny. Shareef is also following in his father's footsteps and looking to make it in the NBA but underwent open-heart surgery in 2018.
While a freshman at UCLA - a rival to USC - Shareef was told he had a cardiac issue and doctors performed the major procedure. Shareef made a full recovery and then transferred to LSU to continue playing basketball. Shareef went undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft and is yet to sign for a professional team.
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Bronny wasn't expected to be ready for the draft in 2024, but it was predicted that he'd be a top prospect come 2025. LeBron dreams of one day playing with his son in the NBA, vowing not to retire until he completes what would be an iconic moment in league history.
LeBron was distraught when Bronny collapsed at USC, but thanked fans for their overwhelming support when news spread about his son. "I want to thank the countless people sending my family love and prayers," LeBron wrote on Twitter.
LeBron James wants to play with Bronny in the NBA (Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)"We feel you and I’m so grateful. Everyone is doing great. We have our family together, safe and healthy, and we feel your love. [I] will have more to say when we’re ready but I wanted to tell everyone how much your support has meant to all of us!"
When Bronny collapsed it was just 9:26 a.m. PT at USC's Gallen Center, and he was taken away in an ambulance instantly. "Yesterday while practising, Bronny Jame.s suffered a cardiac arrest," a family statement said at the time.
"Medical staff was able to treat Bronny and take him to the hospital. He is now in stable condition and no longer in ICU. We ask for respect and privacy for the James family and we will update the media when there is more information.
"LeBron and Savannah (Bronny's parents) wish to publicly send their deepest thanks and appreciation to the USC medical and athletic staff for their incredible work and dedication to the safety of their athletes."