Bronny James announced his decision to enter the 2024 NBA Draft last month. He chose to maintain his college eligibility, while also entering the transfer portal. The son of Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is expected to remain in the draft after being medically cleared ahead of this week’s combine. Shams Charania of The Athletic shared the news, tweeting:
The former USC Trojans guard’s health has been something that teams are likely monitoring. James suffered cardiac arrest during an offseason practice last July. His collegiate debut was delayed until December 10th as he missed the first eight games of the season. In 25 games played, he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.2 blocks per game. The freshman shot just 36.6% from the field, 26.7% from three-point range and 67.6% from the free-throw line.
LeBron James may no longer have playing with Bronny James atop his list of priorities
LeBron James has not been shy about his desire to play with Bronny James. Despite expressing his interest in teaming up on multiple occasions, it appears that joining his son may no longer be atop the four-time NBA MVP’s list of priorities entering the offseason. Brian Windhorst of ESPN shared that he believes the future Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer will be back with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Speaking on Get Up, the NBA insider stated:
Over the last few months, Rich Paul, who’s the agent for LeBron and Bronny James has made an effort to part the concept that drafting Bronny James means you’re getting LeBron. I do believe LeBron is going to opt out of his contract next month and I do believe he’s got several reasons he wants to do that and leaving optionality for playing with Bronny is on the list, but I don’t think it’s at the top. I do think he’s going to be back with the Lakers.
Windhorst added that the Lakers could draft Bronny, if they have the opportunity to do so, however, it will not be their top priority. He noted that teams do not believe drafting the former USC Trojans guard will land them LeBron. The four-time NBA champion continued to play at a high level in 2023-24, his 21st season in the league. He averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 8.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 0.5 blocks per game while shooting 54.0% from the field, 41.0% from three-point range and 75.0% from the free-throw line.
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