LeBron’s Brotherhood Helps Bronny James Through Trying Times After USC Failure Continues to Haunt 19YO
As we head closer to the 2024 NBA draft, the criticism for Bronny James continues to pile up. LeBron James’ 19-year-old son is eligible to declare for the draft this year. But many believe Bronny is not ready to be an NBA player yet. According to ESPN’s mock draft, Bronny is projected to go undrafted in 2024. Bronny has had an underwhelming first year at USC, and his failure in college basketball continues to haunt him.
Amid his son’s recent criticism, LeBron received huge support from his Brotherhood as several NBA colleagues spoke out in Bronny’s defense. Former NBA Champion Kendrick Perkins addressed how unfair it is for Bronny to be compared to his legendary father. During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Perkins said, “It’s unfair to hold him to the same standard of a LeBron James.” LeBron is arguably the best player in NBA history, and Bronny might never be as great as him.
But that does not mean Bronny is not good enough to be an NBA player. Perkins said, “Bronny James, as a professional, is going to be a completely different ball player.” Considering the spacing and pace of an NBA game, Perkins believes Bronny can flourish using his shooting ability, athleticism, and basketball IQ.
LeBron’s long-time friend Gilbert Arenas also had similar thoughts about Bronny’s potential. In an episode of Gil’s Arena, Gilbert revealed that he trained Bronny during his early days and saw great potential in him. “I know what’s sitting inside of him.” Arenas claimed Bronny has not gotten a chance to showcase his skills in college and could be a Jrue Holiday-type player in the NBA.
Teams might pick Bronny James despite disappointing draft projections
Bronny James is yet to declare for the 2024 NBA draft. Despite the criticism and disappointing draft projection, he is likely to get selected by an NBA team if he chooses to enter the draft. An NBA executive told ESPN’s Jeremy Woo, “I think everyone is preparing for him to go in the draft, and I’m dead serious… I think a lot of teams will take the stance that they’ll draft him if there’s a 1% chance LeBron will join them.”
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The USC guard is currently averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. But teams will be willing to take a chance by drafting Bronny if that means getting their hands on LeBron James. Even though Bronny’s comparison to LeBron is unfair for the 19-year-old, he will have to accept that it comes with being the son of one of the greatest players of all time.
