In a move expected for months, the Los Angeles Lakers have officially assigned Bronny James to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. This decision, announced by ESPN’s Shams Charania, comes after the younger James’ brief appearances with the Lakers NBA roster. Bronny, the 20-year-old son of LeBron James, is expected to shuttle between the NBA and the G League this season. His debut for South Bay is set for Saturday. This Bronny James news is positive for Lakers fans as he will no longer be a distraction for their team and will get a chance to improve.
Bronny James News: Rookie Assigned to the G League
Bronny James Stats Underwhelming
The Lakers’ decision to send Bronny to the G League while having him on the NBA roster for select games was controversial. Bronny has seen limited playing time in the NBA, averaging just 3.3 minutes per game across four appearances. Many believe the only reason he was drafted or got playing time at all was his dad’s stature on the team and with the league.
The Lakers today assigned Bronny James to their NBA G League affiliate, South Bay, where he’s expected to debut vs. Salt Lake City on Saturday, sources said. James will be on Lakers roster vs. 76ers Friday, then rejoin South Bay. https://t.co/Bj1zP5YO7I
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 7, 2024
Bronny only had a brief stay in college, as he played just one season at USC and averaged 4.8 points per game on 36.6% shooting. While he’s shown promise as a defender and passer, his development is still very much a work in progress.
As Bronny heads to the G League, he will get more opportunities for extended playtime. This could prove crucial for his growth. Unlike his minutes in the NBA where he sometimes looked over his head, the G League offers a chance to get significant minutes and face competition at a level closer to what he needs to develop.
Bronny James News Positive
The G League offers a more comfortable environment for young prospects. It’s also a competitive league where players are constantly fighting for opportunities. For Bronny, this means that his last name will not protect him. While his name recognition might bring eyes to South Bay games, Bronny will be forced to prove himself against players who are just as determined to make the NBA. On top of that, without his dad on the bench, players will likely be specifically going at Bronny to prove a point.
For Bronny, the G League will be a test for his long-term NBA potential. He will likely face many challenges. However, if he thrives, it could accelerate his growth. It could prove that he actually deserves the NBA contract so many believe that nepotism helped him receive.
What’s Next for Bronny?
For now, Bronny’s path seems clear. He’ll continue to split his time between the Lakers and South Bay. His G League debut is against the Salt Lake City Stars on Saturday. It marks the beginning of more regular minutes on the court for him. He will finally get the chance to develop like a real second round pick.
The next few months in the G League will show exactly what Bronny James will be able to be in the NBA. If he is able to compete at all in the G League, there will be hope that his young potential can grow into something more.
