19-year-old LeBron James becomes a dad

[Champ]

CLEVELAND (AP) - LeBron James had a good reason for missing practice Wednesday. He became a father.

The Cavaliers star guard and his longtime girlfriend, a 19-year-old Akron woman, had a baby boy Wednesday. No other details were available.

James left the team's training camp in Columbus to be with her and his new son. He was expected to rejoin the team Thursday as he prepares for his second NBA season.

During the team's media day Monday at Gund Arena, James wouldn't comment when asked if he were about to become a father. He has always been guarded about his private life.

Fatherhood should fit James well. The reigning rookie of the year, who turns 20 in December, is most relaxed when he is among children. This summer, he donated money to refurbish basketball courts and youth community centers in Akron. He has also donated supplies to the city's schools.

http://msn.foxsports.com/story/3064238

[nini]

1. Congrats to him... sounds like he's going to be a good dad.

.

[XNASA]

2. I was gonna make a snide remark about babies having babies....

Then I remembered that my own father was just 19 years of age when I was born.

[nini]

3. He is a bit young.. but definitely able to take care of his child.

Probably more mature than a lot of parents ten years older.

[SidDithers]

4. Hmmm...the name Shawn Kemp comes to mind for some reason...

hope I'm wrong.

Sid

[AngryAmish]

5. or Steve Garvey - the father of our country

[CO Liberal]

6. Now We Know What He Was Doing....

...in the back of his Hummer.

:-)

[bigwillq]

7. Congrats LeBron

Man, I wish it were my baby.

LeBron's a cutie!