While making his collegiate debut less than five months after falling with a cardiac attack, Bronny James, the son of basketball legend LeBron James, expressed his gratitude for everything. He did so by saying that he was “thankful for everything.”

While playing for the University of Southern California, the 19-year-old came off the bench during the first half of their game against Long Beach State, which they ultimately lost 84-79.

In July, it was discovered that James had a congenital cardiac abnormality, and in November, he was given the all-clear to resume his participation in the sport.

“Proud of you kid,” LeBron James said.

“Today you’ve given me more life.”

The four-time NBA champion, who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, added in a post on Instagram: “Can’t even tell y’all how EMOTIONAL today was for me! I’m literally drained and all I can say is @bronny you’re simply INCREDIBLE!!

“Damn the wins and loses that will occur. You’ve already won the ultimate goal/championship and that’s LIFE!!!”

During the game, LeBron James, who is 38 years old, was there from courtside alongside members of his family, including his other children, son Bryce Maximus and daughter Zhuri.

They jumped to their feet when James made his first basket, which was a three-pointer in the second half of the game. The crowd had earlier shown their appreciation for James by giving him a standing ovation when he entered the game.

The 16 minutes that Bronny was on the court resulted in him scoring four points, grabbing three rebounds, assisting on two steals, and blocking two shots.

“I just want to say I’m thankful for everything,” he said afterwards, also thanking the medical staff that treated him, his family, coach Andy Enfield and his team-mates “during this hard time in my life”.

James also received well wishes on social media including a message from three-time NBA champion Dwayne Wade, who wrote: “Watching Bronny walk out on that court gave me chills.

“Welcome back to the game you love, Bronny.”