An anonymous NBA general manager has commented on Bronny James, stating that he will have access to unparalleled resources, primarily due to his father, LeBron James. The executive highlighted that this level of support is not typically afforded to second-round picks entering the league.
According to ESPN’s Baxter Holmes, the general manager noted, “He’s going to have more resources for a late second-round pick than anyone in NBA history, because of LeBron. He’s going to have the best trainer, the best dieticians, the best player development people, the best everybody.” The executive emphasized that second-round players often receive minimal attention, but Bronny’s situation will be different.
Bronny was selected as the 55th overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2024 NBA Draft. Despite his family’s storied basketball legacy, concerns linger about his readiness for the professional game. During his time at USC, he averaged only 4.8 points per game, placing him eighth on the team in scoring.
His transition to the NBA was further scrutinized during the Summer League, where he averaged 8.8 points per game. He faced challenges shooting, managing only 35% from the field and a mere 15.8% from beyond the arc.
The scrutiny continued in the preseason, as Bronny scored just two points across his first two games. These performances have led to ongoing debates about his ability to meet the high expectations set by his father’s monumental career.
Critics argue that the pressure on Bronny to succeed could be overwhelming. The comparisons to LeBron James are inevitable, which raises questions about how he will handle the demands of the league.
The general manager’s comments highlight the unique circumstances surrounding Bronny’s entry into the NBA. With the support system he has access to, the focus will shift to how he utilizes these resources to improve and succeed. “He will have every opportunity. The question is, what does he do with it?” the GM said.