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Bronny James’ Health Scare Sparks Concern as a Fellow USC Player’s History Comes to Light

Published 07/26/2023, 8:06 AM EDT

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In a health scare that took many by surprise, LeBron James‘s son, LeBron James Jr., fondly known as Bronny, suffered a cardiac arrest on Monday. The 18-year-old was working out at the University of Southern California when the incident occurred and he collapsed on the court. People then took him to the hospital and admitted to the intensive care unit. And as of now, he is no longer in the ICU and is in stable condition.

However, following Bronny’s cardiac arrest, concerning news about a fellow USC player’s health history has come to light.

Bronny James isn’t the first victim

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It is surprising to see that an 18-year-old active boy suffered a cardiac arrest. However, as Bronny James’ condition stabilized, a shocking report of a fellow USC player’s health history was bought to light. And it seems like Bronny isn’t the first USC player to have suffered a cardiac arrest. As per ‘Sorting News’, USC Trojans Vincent Iwuchukwu also suffered a cardiac arrest during a summer workout on July 1, 2022.

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The alarming situation happened during the training session, during which the skilled center seemed to be playing well. When Iwuchukwu used less force to grab a rebound, USC assistant coach Eric Mobley sensed something was off, which raised immediate concerns. Then Iwuchukwu fell, which prompted USC trainers Jon Yonamine, Erin Tillman, and Lauren Crawford to take immediate action. Medical staff stabilized him with CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED) before sending him to the hospital.

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Iwuchukwu’s condition stabilized after several days in the hospital. However, the cause of the cardiac arrest remains unknown.

With Bronny’s health scare, this marks the second consecutive year in which a USC player has faced such a life-threatening event.

And as for Iwuchukwu, he underwent a treatment to implant a cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in his chest. This will help him control his heart rate and offer protection against upcoming emergencies, to secure his health and safety. Fortunately, the player recovered well and was able to return to playing.

Iwuchukwu makes his return

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Iwuchukwu, a freshman basketball player for USC, triumphantly returned to play on January 12 after his cardiac arrest in July 2022. His recuperation process got underway when Iwuchukwu was finally able to resume practicing in late 2022. Medical staff carefully followed his progress and on January 12, 2023, they gave him the all-clear to play. As USC took on Colorado, fans and teammates anxiously awaited his return. They got to see him play for a heartwarming five minutes in his first game back.

In the ensuing games, USC carefully controlled Iwuchukwu’s playing time while exercising the utmost prudence. In the game against Utah on January 14, he appeared for six minutes, easing back into competitive play. He played in 14 games throughout the course of the season. Iwuchukwu played an average of a little under 14 minutes per game.

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However, as for Bronny James, it is imperative that he recovers from his arrest. Get well soon, Bronny!

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Written by:

Ranjitha Ramesh

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Ranjitha Ramesh is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, Ranjitha has a strong foundation in reporting and writing. Her passion for basketball, particularly the Lakers and LeBron James, fuels her desire to delve into the lifestyle and off-court activities of NBA stars.
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Edited by:

Saumya Khanduja