Former NBA journeyman Steven Hunter has sparked controversy with his scathing criticism of LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to draft Bronny James, LeBron’s eldest son.
The Lakers’ interest in drafting Bronny, despite his underwhelming draft profile, was widely speculated before the 2024 NBA Draft.
Hunter, who played in the NBA from 2001 to 2010, took to social media to express his dismay over what he perceives as LeBron’s abuse of power to secure Bronny’s spot on the roster with a fully guaranteed rookie contract.
The former player stated on social media that late second-round draft picks like Bronny typically do not receive guaranteed contracts before proving themselves in summer league play.
Bronny’s NBA prospects were called into question after he averaged fewer than five points per game during his brief stint at USC and showed modest physical measurements at the NBA Draft Combine.
In his social media post, Hunter accused LeBron and his agent, Rich Paul, of undermining the NBA’s integrity by ensuring Bronny’s entry into the league without the customary merit-based evaluation.
Hunter’s criticism extended beyond LeBron’s actions, comparing the alleged nepotism unfavorably to the straightforward approach of basketball legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
“Typically late second round picks don’t get 4 year guaranteed roster spot deals either. This wasn’t earned, I’m sorry… And it’s an egregious abuse of power from LBJ [LeBron James] & Rich Paul. It’s a slap in the face to all of the kids out there who work their a**es off to get to the league. It’s sneaky hollywood s**t like this that turns a lot of people off about Lebron. …” Hunter posted as reported by Alejandro Avila of Outkick.
“This is just another example of what they be talking about right when you try to like’em. This is why most people prefer MJ [Michael Jordan] or Kobe over him because you know at least MJ or Kobe gone be straight shooters… Trust me MJ could’ve gotten one of his sons in the league if he chose to abuse his power like that…
“But he didn’t because MJ stands on earned not given and he would’ve never gave his son a sense of entitlement which is what Lebron James just did with Bronny… Not taking anything away from Bronny nor am I upset at Bronny… Just know that this is a manipulation of our league and the integrity of what it truly takes to get there.”
Despite the controversy, Bronny James faces high expectations in his rookie season with the Lakers, driven in part by his famous father’s legacy and influence.
Hunter’s comments reflect broader concerns within the NBA community about fairness and equal opportunity in player recruitment and development.
