Bronny James open to playing in G League for development
Bronny James stated his readiness to accept any assignment that allows him to play basketball and grow as an athlete, regardless of the level.
“I’m just looking forward to any basketball I play, no matter what level I’m playing at,” James said following the Lakers’ 99-80 loss to the Houston Rockets in their Las Vegas Summer League opener.
James was questioned about potentially spending time in the G League when Houston’s Cam Whitmore, the 20th pick in the 2023 draft, recorded impressive stats: 20 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals. As a rookie, Whitmore played 13 games for Houston’s G League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, and averaged 26.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 2.1 steals per game.
After a strong start with six points, James faltered offensively, finishing with eight points on 3-for-14 shooting (0-for-8 from beyond the arc) and three turnovers. Over three summer league games, including two in the California Classic, James is shooting 6-for-26 overall (23.1%) and 0-for-12 from three-point range.
“I just feel like I’m in a little slump right now,” James admitted.
Despite his struggles, Lakers’ summer league coach Dane Johnson dismissed any concerns about James’ slow start.
“Shoot, he’s going to have a long career,” Johnson said. “This is just the beginning. We keep instilling confidence, keeping that in their heads. We’ve got a long way to go.”
Johnson, primarily the coach for the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, remained non-committal when asked about James possibly playing in the G League next season.
“I don’t know about that yet, so I can’t really comment on that,” Johnson said. “But I think all these guys are going to be in the G League at some point — the draftees.”
Dalton Knecht, another Lakers rookie, led the team with 25 points on 9-for-18 shooting (5-for-11 from three), 6 rebounds, and 4 assists against the Rockets.
James’ openness to the G League contrasts with previous statements from his agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports. Before the draft, Paul informed teams that they would not consider offers if they planned for James to join on a two-way contract.
“I got the word out early to teams that if you plan on bringing Bronny in, here’s what you need to know: If you won’t give him a real deal, there’s nothing to talk about,” Paul told ESPN. “It’s hard to get real development on a two-way deal.”
Despite offensive challenges, James played strong defense, recording two steals and often guarding Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard.
“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 showing my effort to the GM and coaches.”
Lakers vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka, coach JJ Redick, and assistants Scott Brooks and Nate McMillan were present courtside. Greg St. Jean, who is expected to join Redick’s staff, was also in attendance.
Sheppard scored 23 points on 9-for-17 shooting (4-for-6 from three) with five assists and four turnovers.
Redick, speaking on the Lakers-Rockets broadcast, praised James’ 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.”