Fans have waited nearly two decades to witness Bronny James‘ NBA debut. During his introductory press conference with the Lakers on Tuesday, James addressed the pressure of finally playing with his father, LeBron James.
“For sure, there’s an amplified amount of pressure,” James said. “I’ve already seen it in the media and stuff on the internet talking about, ‘I might not deserve an opportunity.’ But, I’ve been dealing with stuff like this for my whole, so it’s nothing different. It’s more amplified for sure but I can get through it.”
Bronny received mass criticism after being drafted. Many claimed his selection was the result of nepotism. Others defended Bronny, pointing to his NBA potential. No matter which side is correct, all eyes will be on Bronny in the upcoming NBA season.
In just one season at USC, James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in his 19.4 minutes per game. In his lone campaign with the Trojans, James made six starts and scored double figures on three occasions.
James’ debut at USC was delayed after he suffered cardiac arrest in the summer ahead of the 2023-24 season. He finished the season at USC shooting 36.6% from the floor and 26.7% from beyond the arc.
Bronny James is excited to show off his talents
With his heart condition healed, Bronny James believes he will have a greater chance to show off his talents during his debut campaign in the NBA.
“The time that I had off, I feel like I could’ve been perfecting my game more. I just feel like I’ve been given the opportunity to showcase what I can really do because I wasn’t given that much of an opportunity at SC. So, I’m excited,” Bronny said.
The Lakers are evidently confident in James’ abilities, as well. On Tuesday, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported the Lakers plan to sign Bronny to a multiyear deal. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka couldn’t be happier to have Bronny on the roster.
“Bronny is first and foremost a person of high character and second he is a young man that works incredibly hard,” Pelinka said. “Those are the qualities that we look for in drafting players and adding to our developmental core with the Lakers. He had a great draft workout with us, where he displayed those qualities to me.
“In an hour lunch that we shared in the building, just to get to know each other, it became clear that he was a man of character. In terms of his work ethic, I think we’ve all seen that lived out, too. He’s not a person that is ever taking shortcuts or expected or been entitled about basketball opportunities. He’s worked for everything that he’s gotten.”
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