LeBron James and Bronny James share the court for the first time in the NBA

PALM DESERT, Calif. – LeBron James and Bronny James made history Sunday night when they became the first father and son to play in an NBA game together.

The historic moment came early in the second quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason game against the Phoenix Suns. Bronny James, who was celebrating his 20th birthday, reported to the game and joined his father on the pitch.

“It’s surreal,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said before the game. “It will be fun when they are on the pitch together. I'm happy about it. I feel very honored to be part of history.”

Redick added that the historic moment would happen “in the flow of the game” and would not be a “gimmick.” That's exactly what happened when the younger James arrived along with fellow rookie Dalton Knecht early in the second quarter.

The elder James, entering his 22nd season, has spoken for several years about his desire to play alongside his eldest son, and the Lakers have put father and son in a position to make history by bringing Bronny James along with the 55th pick in June.

Lebron James, 39, started Sunday's game after missing Friday's preseason opener. He and his Olympic teammate Anthony Davis seemed to have momentum early, leading LA with 19 points on 8-of-12 shooting and 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting, respectively, in the first half.

Bronny James didn't score in his 4 minutes, 9 seconds of play in the second quarter, missed the only shot he took and committed three turnovers.