Bryce James, the younger son of NBA star LeBron James, responded briefly to his former high school teammate ahead of the latter’s first college basketball game. This reaction came as Bryce’s ex-teammate, Bryce Cofield, prepared to begin his freshman season at Cal State Fullerton, marking a significant milestone in his basketball journey.
Former Sierra Canyon Teammate Begins College Career
Bryce Cofield, who played alongside Bryce James at Sierra Canyon, recently posted images of himself training and preparing for college basketball. Cofield will compete at Cal State Fullerton, stepping into a new role as a freshman. Recognized as a three-star recruit, Cofield contributed significantly to his high school team, leading them to a state championship as a senior.
During his final high school season, Cofield averaged 13 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, earning the title of Defensive Player of the Year. His impact on both ends of the court has been praised by his college coach.
Coaches Praise Cofield’s Defensive and Offensive Skills
Dedrique Taylor, head coach of the Cal State Fullerton Titans, highlighted Cofield’s defensive abilities, describing him as a “physically gifted basketball player” who is prepared to make a significant defensive contribution immediately. Taylor also emphasized how Cofield’s offensive style complements the team’s system, particularly admiring his capability to penetrate defenses and create space on the court.
Coach Taylor also noted Cofield’s experience winning at Sierra Canyon, stating the high school is recognized not only in Southern California but nationally for its basketball excellence.
Bryce James’ Brief Yet Supportive Response
On social media, Bryce James expressed support with a simple but meaningful comment, writing “Brudda” beneath Cofield’s post. This showed continued camaraderie between the two players who once shared the court in high school.
Emerging Prospects and NBA Aspirations for Bryce James
While Cofield begins his collegiate basketball career, Bryce James himself is preparing for his own debut at the University of Arizona. Although there has been speculation about the possibility of Bryce joining his father LeBron James in the NBA, insider Brett Siegel expressed skepticism about such a future.
Siegel suggested that LeBron James is nearing the end of his NBA career after opting into a $52.6 million contract for what could be his final season. LeBron’s decision to not extend beyond this year adds to the uncertainty surrounding any potential professional overlap with his sons.
During a livestream, Bryce James conceded the idea of sharing an NBA court with his father appeared unrealistic due to the timing, saying,
“I ain’t gonna lie, that’s OD. Waiting until I, nah, that’s too much… That’s too much, nah. He’s gonna be 42, bro.”
LeBron’s Retirement Plans and Next Steps
Though LeBron James continues to put up impressive numbers on the court, averaging 24.4 points and over eight assists, signs suggest retirement is approaching. He recently confided to Kevin Love,
“Savannah wants me to f—— retire in the next year or so.”
Off the hardwood, LeBron is preparing for a transition into media work with Amazon Prime Video and plans to take ownership in the NBA’s Las Vegas expansion team, signaling a shift from player to executive and broadcaster roles.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does LeBron James sleep 12 hours?
A. Professional athletes use more energy than most people, so they usually sleep more than the typical 8 hours. LeBron James, for instance, averages 12 hours of sleep each night. This is noteworthy since top athletes often travel for games, making it tough to get enough rest.