Not Bronny or Bryce, but Another “Young Prince” Has LeBron James Bursting With Pride Over 13 Year Struggle

Celebrating a major accomplishment in their ‘I Promise‘ program, the LeBron James Family Foundation made an amazing announcement on social media today. The LJFF, who works for the community and families of Akron, Ohio, James’ hometown, collaborated with Kent State University for their educational outreach program, I Promise.

The foundation took to Twitter to share the news of their first graduate under the program. “Remember in 2020 when Kent State University guaranteed free tuition for 4 years + 1 year of room & board for LeBron James’ first class of I Promise students that started this journey in 2011? Today, we celebrate our very FIRST college graduate… Anthony Claytor!” LeBron James himself reposted LFJJ’s post, to give his heartfelt congratulations, he said, “CONGRATULATIONS ANTHONY!!!! SO PROUD OF YOU YOUNG KING!!!“

After 13 years, the first class of I Promise students are finally graduating. Four years ago, the LJFF partnered up with Kent State to collectively utilize their resources for the benefit of the community of young students in Akron. They are currently making education accessible and affordable for over 1600 students under the I Promise program.

Anthony Claytor, the first I Promise student to graduate under the program, represents the accomplishment of the foundation’s goal of giving underprivileged students access to education and support. This accomplishment is the result of many years of commitment, labor, and the transforming force of community support.

And LeBron James couldn’t be more proud. The player has always utilized his social media to talk about all things important to him and his sons Bronny and Bryce aren’t exceptions.

LeBron James celebrates his family

LeBron James loves his family and he takes every opportunity to make it known. Earlier this year, when his eldest son Bronny, who applied in the 2024 NBA Draft went ‘undrafted’ in ESPN’s early mock draft after an underwhelming season at USC, the protective dad took to social media to defend his son. He said, “Can y’all please just let the kid be a kid and enjoy college basketball,” he later deleted the tweet and even faced a lot of criticism for his statement.

Regardless, that hasn’t stopped him. With fans accusing Bronny of nepotism and claiming that he wouldn’t be here without LeBron, the 19-year-old has had a tough time ahead of the draft announcement. Stephen A. Smith even accused LeBron and the LA Lakers of scripting Bronny’s projected draft. But the proud father has supported Bronny throughout all of it. Last month when the young player made his draft announcement, both LeBron and Savannah reshared the post to celebrate their son.

James has openly expressed his “need” to be on-court alongside his son before he retires. With Bronny entering the league soon, there are speculations that the father-son duo might make history with the Lakers or that LeBron could even utilize his free agency to go wherever his son is. And if the superstar doesn’t retire for another couple of years, he may even be able to play with his younger son Bryce, who is 16.

Fans are excited to see what the 2024 Draft announcement holds for the James family. Not only will it be influencing Bronny’s career, but it might also change the trajectory of LeBron’s career. The possibilities are exciting. Stay tuned for more updates about the upcoming draft.