Bronny James Shows Promise in NBA Summer League Amid Challenges
Bronny James, the young guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, is navigating a transformative phase in his burgeoning basketball career. Selected as the 55th pick in the NBA draft by the Lakers, James has shown glimpses of his potential in the recent NBA Summer League, despite initial struggles.
During his final two games of the Summer League, Bronny left a mark by scoring 25 points on an efficient 10-of-21 shooting. This performance represented a significant improvement, especially in his three-point shooting. After going 0-for-15 from beyond the arc in the first four games, James converted 3 of 8 three-point attempts in his closing games, signaling progress.
His early outings in San Francisco and Las Vegas, however, were far from ideal. James shot just 7 for 31, highlighting areas that require development. Concerns persist about his ballhandling skills and the need for a more consistent perimeter shot. Nevertheless, his ability to adapt and improve has not gone unnoticed.
Standing at 6-foot-2, James has primarily occupied the shooting guard position. However, the Lakers are contemplating his future role more expansively. Dane Johnson, the Lakers' Summer League coach, commented, "I think right now he's more of a (shooting guard), but I think he could be a combo-ish. He picks up stuff really well. We throw stuff at him -- plays, coverages, defensively. He kind of picks it up really quick, so I think he could potentially be (a point guard)." This versatility could become a valuable asset as James progresses.
Bronny's journey has not been without significant challenges. Last summer, he suffered cardiac arrest during a workout at the University of Southern California and underwent surgery for a congenital heart defect. This life-altering event has added a layer of resilience to his character, resonating in his approach to the game.
Despite averaging modest numbers—4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists during his sole season at USC—James declared for the NBA draft, driven by a determination to carve out his path in professional basketball. His recent Summer League experiences have only fueled his resolve. "He had two pretty good games last two. I think it's just going to help him going into the summer so we can work on different things with him. Just that confidence and knowing he can play at this level. It's still going to take a lot of time and a lot of reps," said Johnson.
The Lakers are considering using the G League as a developmental platform for James, providing him with the necessary time and environment to hone his skills. Such a path would not only afford him valuable playing time but also opportunities to integrate the coaching staff's feedback more effectively.
In games against the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers, James demonstrated his ability to compete at a professional level, though inconsistencies remain. Johnson remarked positively on James' attitude and adaptability, saying, "In general, he doesn't let any of that stuff get to him. He just wants to play basketball and be on a team. He's a good kid. He's listening. He's trying to learn."
Historically, family ties in professional sports have added a captivating storyline for fans and analysts alike. While no father-and-son duo has ever played in an NBA game simultaneously, there are parallels to be drawn from other sports. Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. famously played together in Major League Baseball with the Seattle Mariners in 1990 and 1991. In hockey, Gordie Howe shared the ice with his sons, Marty and Mark, in both the WHA and NHL.
As Bronny James carves his path, there lies a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation. The Lakers' commitment to his development, paired with his inherent resilience and hunger to learn, lays a foundation for what could be a compelling career. Only time will tell if he can emerge from his father’s iconic shadow and create a legacy of his own.