Gary Payton: LeBron Jr. committed to attend L.A.-area school this fall

Multiple stories over the last week have highlighted how LeBron James' family will influence his expected free agency this summer. Enter a nugget about his oldest son, LeBron Jr.

The 13-year-old is set to enroll at Sierra Canyon School in Los Angeles County this fall, Hall of Fame point guard Gary Payton told BSO's Sheena Quick. Payton, who is involved at the AAU level, added that the youngster known as Bronny will attend school with the sons of Scottie Pippen and Kenyon Martin.

Later Monday, a Sierra Canyon official told Spectrum SportsNet's Chris Palmer that there was no truth to the report.

Either way, the story is noteworthy because over the weekend, Dwyane Wade said that his close friend James will prioritize his family over team personnel decisions this summer. Meanwhile last week, a report indicated the only thing that would keep James with the Cleveland Cavaliers would be "pleading from family members."

James owns a house in Los Angeles and has been linked to the Lakers dating back to last season, when it became clear the team would have ample salary cap space this summer. The Clippers could be viewed as contenders for James' services as well, although a report from last year suggested he would never consider L.A.'s second NBA franchise.

LeBron Jr., who will enter Grade 8 this fall, is already considered a top basketball prospect in the class of 2023 rankings. Sierra Canyon serves grades 7-12, and alumni includes Marvin Bagley III, and Kendall and Kylie Jenner.