Is Bronny James featured as NBA 2K26 cover athlete? Viral claim debunked

Bronny James had a typical 55th-pick rookie season with the LA Lakers. However, the media attention surrounding him was way more than the No. 1 pick. Despite being a fan favorite, he faced relentless social media scrutiny.

On Tuesday, a post by NBA Centel went viral on X, which said that Bronny would grace the cover of the NBA 2K26. If he were indeed going to be on the cover, other media houses would have broken the news.

Bad news for Bronny's fans, the story is false. NBA Centel is a parody account that appears and sounds like NBA Central, one of the stops for NBA fans to get the latest updates.

In his rookie season, Bronny James averaged 2.3 ppg, 0.7 rpg, 0.8 apg and shot 31.3% in FG% in 27 games. He also had a solid performance playing in the G League.

LeBron James makes a shocking revelation about son Bryce and Bronny James' playing career

When LeBron James stepped on the court with his son Bronny James this season, the entire sports world got behind the LA Lakers star, marveling at the rarity of the sight that perhaps would never be seen again. He was hailed as a father by many, except his detractors.

However, as the season moved ahead, in light of Bronny's performance, the chatter around LeBron and his involvement in getting his son drafted got louder. While their father-son pairing was historic, the Lakers star faced heavy criticism for his influence on Bronny's NBA entry.

Finally, the four-time NBA champion seemingly addressed the allegations on his "Mind the Game" podcast and said that he has never tried to get too involved in his son's coaching.

"I've never got involved with my kids coaches," LeBron said. "From Bronny going up to where he's now, to when Bryce on his way to Arizona, I've never got involved, I've never went to a practice and sat through practice the whole time and see how my son was utilized."

"I'm never down on the phone with the coaches," LeBron added. "Coach my son, coach him however you want to. I hope you hold him more accountable than any other kid here."

Next season, when LeBron James potentially returns, he will still be the oldest player in the league, but he will hold the record for playing the most seasons in league history. Meanwhile, Bronny will look to earn more minutes off the bench.