On Father’s Day Sunday, Parker Whitfield, girlfriend of LA Lakers guard Bronny James, posted a previously unseen photo of her father, Dondré T. Whitfield, to celebrate the occasion. The Spelman University student shared the vintage image, which features her father alongside her brother and herself, capturing a precious family moment.
Whitfield expressed her affection with a simple yet heartfelt caption on her story.
“Happy Father’s Day Pater!!” she wrote.
The black-and-white photo shows Dondré T. Whitfield standing next to Parker, while her brother, Dre, crouches beside them at a golf course. This glimpse into their family archive highlights the close bond they share.
Behind Parker Whitfield’s Family Legacy
Parker comes from a family well-established in the entertainment industry. Her father, Dondré T. Whitfield, is a celebrated actor with three Emmy nominations, known for his role in the television classic All My Children as well as guest appearances on widely watched shows like Grey’s Anatomy and CSI: Miami. Parker’s mother, Salli Richardson-Whitfield, complements the family’s artistic background as an actress featured in films such as I Am Legend and The Great White Hype.
Relationship Between Bronny James and Parker Whitfield
The couple’s relationship has mostly stayed private despite their public profiles. Bronny James and Parker Whitfield met at Sierra Canyon High School and reportedly started dating in 2024. While they tend to keep their romance out of the spotlight, they have been seen together at events like a USA basketball game during the 2024 Olympics and frequently share affectionate moments on social media.
LeBron James Praises His Son’s Growth on and off the Court
Bronny James has received considerable praise from his father and Lakers teammate, LeBron James. During an interview on the Pat McAfee Show in March, LeBron highlighted his pride in Bronny’s personal and athletic development since joining the NBA.
“For me as a dad, it doesn’t matter if he never scores ever, for me as a dad, I am super proud, period as a young man,” LeBron said. “For me as a mentor and a teammate of his … I’m super proud of his development as a player.”
Selected by the Lakers as the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny is balancing time between the G-League and the main Lakers roster in his rookie season, showing steady progress in his professional journey.
The Significance of the Family Tribute and Athletic Journey
Parker Whitfield’s Father’s Day tribute shines a light on her father’s enduring influence and the importance of family amidst the busy lives of rising stars. Meanwhile, Bronny James’s entry into the NBA under his father’s mentorship marks a promising start to a career watched closely by fans and analysts alike. Their combined stories underscore themes of legacy, growth, and the powerful support systems behind young athletes in the spotlight.