Grateful Bronny James thanks his parents, doctors, coaches and teammates after making his college debut in USC defeat - five months after he nearly died from cardiac arrest

Bronny James stepped out onto the court for the first time in his college basketball career on Sunday, a remarkable comeback considering how close he was to tragedy earlier this year.

James was at practice with the Trojans back in July when he suffered from cardiac arrest - stemming from a congenital heart defect.

After months of recovery, rehab, and getting back into basketball shape, he checked into the game to cheers from all those watching - including his father, LeBron James.

Following the conclusion of the game, Bronny spoke to the media offering thanks to all those involved in his journey.

'I just want to say I'm thankful for everything,' Bronny said - with coach Andy Enfield by his side. 

'Mayo Clinic, everything they helped me with. My parents, siblings who supported me through this hard time in my life. 

'I just want to give appreciation to everyone that's helped me through this - also my coach, my teammates, all my other coaches that have been with me since the start. I just want to say I'm thankful for them.'

Bronny put up a statline of 4 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and a block in 16 minutes of action while shooting 1-for-3 from the field - all shots coming from beyond the arc.

Unfortunately for him, the Trojans fell in overtime in an upset at the hands of Long Beach State - who won 84-79.

The Trojans fell to 5-4 on the season. They next play at Auburn next Sunday.