Basketball talent often runs in the family, and the NBA has seen many players follow in the footsteps of their fathers or grow up surrounded by the game. These family connections show that the sport is more than just competition; it can be part of a lasting legacy. From famous father-son duos to siblings and cousins sharing the spotlight, strong basketball bloodlines have shaped many careers.
Growing up with a close relative in the NBA often gives young players a head start in learning the skills, mindset, and discipline needed to succeed. This piece explores some of the most well-known and successful family ties that have left a lasting mark on the league.
Father Son Duo In NBA
5. LeBron And Bronny James
It is an extraordinary situation that both LeBron James and his son Bronny are now on the Los Angeles Lakers roster. While Bronny may not have been selected based purely on his playing ability, LeBron’s influence and desire to share the court with his son played a major role. LeBron, widely considered one of the greatest basketball players in history, wanted this moment and took the steps to make it a reality.
4. Mychal And Klay Thompson
Mychal Thompson spent many years as a strong and versatile big man with the Trail Blazers before later joining the Lakers, where he eventually worked as a broadcaster. His son, Klay Thompson, followed a different path on the court, becoming one of the greatest three-point shooters the NBA has ever seen. While both father and son are NBA champions, Klay has earned four titles, putting him ahead of his dad in that regard.
3. Dell, Stephen, And Seth Curry
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Both brothers, Dell and Seth Curry built careers as reliable shooters and solid role players, with Dell slightly ahead due to winning a Sixth Man of the Year award. Steph Curry, however, stands apart. Widely recognized as the greatest shooter in NBA history, he transformed the game with his range and style. With two MVP awards and countless three-point records, Steph elevated the Curry family’s shooting legacy to an entirely new level.
2. Joe And Kobe Bryant
From LeBron, a current Laker, to Kobe Bryant, one of the most iconic players in the franchise’s history, the Bryant family has its own strong connection to basketball.
While Kobe is widely known for his legendary career, his father, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, also made his mark.
Known for his memorable nickname, Jellybean played eight seasons in the NBA and averaged over ten points per game in three of them. He later played in Europe, which is how Kobe first crossed paths with coach Mike D’Antoni.
1. Tim Hardaway And Tim Hardaway Jr.
Tim Hardaway Sr., known for his deadly crossover, earned a spot in the Hall of Fame and was selected to five All-Star Games and five All-NBA teams, though he made the first team just once. Some debate his Hall of Fame inclusion, but his impact on the game is undeniable.
His son, Tim Hardaway Jr., may not have a Hall of Fame future, but he has built a solid NBA career. As a typical modern wing, he stretches the floor with his three-point shooting and has maintained a scoring average of 14.0 points per game over a career that has already spanned more than ten years.
Also Read: Unsung Heroes Of NBA: Ranking 5 Players Who Stole The Show Yet Received No Recognition
