Bronny James Addresses Possibility of Playing in the G League
LAS VEGAS — Bronny James expressed openness to any opportunity that allows him to play and grow as a basketball player in his first professional season.
“I’m just looking forward to any basketball I play — no matter what level I’m playing at,” James said following the Los Angeles Lakers’ 99-80 loss to the Houston Rockets in their opening game of the Las Vegas Summer League on Friday.
When asked about potentially spending time in the G League, James showed a willingness to embrace the challenge. Houston’s Cam Whitmore, the No. 20 pick in the 2023 draft, showcased his talent with 20 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals.
Whitmore, as a rookie, played 13 games for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Houston’s G League affiliate, averaging impressive stats: 26.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 2.1 steals per game.
James started strong in the match against Houston by scoring six quick points, leading L.A. to a 13-10 score midway through the first quarter. However, he faced difficulties offensively afterward, finishing with eight points on 3-for-14 shooting and three turnovers.
Through three summer league games, including two in the California Classic, James has struggled with his shooting, going 6-for-26 overall (23.1%) and 0-for-12 from beyond the arc.
“I just feel like I’m in a little slump right now,” James admitted.
Despite these early challenges, the Lakers’ summer league coach, Dane Johnson, remains optimistic about James’ future.
“Shoot, he’s going to have a long career,” Johnson said. “This is just the beginning. We just keep instilling confidence in him. We’ve got a long way to go.”
Johnson, who also coaches the South Bay Lakers, L.A.’s G League affiliate, did not comment specifically on James’ potential G League assignment but noted that most draftees spend time there.
Dalton Knecht, another L.A. rookie taken with the No. 17 pick, led the Lakers against Houston with 25 points on 9-for-18 shooting, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists.
James’ recent statements contrast with earlier comments from his agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, who emphasized that his client should not join any NBA team on a two-way contract. Paul insisted on a “real deal” for James to ensure proper development.
Despite his offensive struggles, James continued to play hard defense, recording two steals against Houston and frequently guarding Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 draft pick.
“I’ve known Reed since fifth grade,” James said. “I know he’s a shooter, so I was just trying to get in his body and prevent those 3-balls from going up. I was trying to pick him up full court and show my effort to the GM and coaches.”
Lakers’ top executives, including vice president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick, observed the game from courtside.
Sheppard finished with 23 points on 9-for-17 shooting with five assists and four turnovers.
Redick praised James during ESPN’s broadcast, highlighting the 19-year-old’s defensive efforts.
“We want him pressuring the ball,” Redick said. “I told him yesterday, ‘If you get blown by, if you have 10 fouls, that’s on me. I want you up pressuring the ball.’”