Bronny James, the talented son of NBA star LeBron James, is set to begin his rookie season by splitting time between the G League affiliate South Bay and the Los Angeles Lakers. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Bronny will make his debut with South Bay during their sold-out game against Salt Lake City this Saturday, while also being available for the Lakers’ upcoming game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night.
This strategy allows Bronny to gain valuable experience in the G League while still being part of the Lakers’ roster. He is expected to participate in home games for South Bay and will join the Lakers for their road matches when South Bay is not playing.
Bronny’s transition to both teams was anticipated following the Lakers’ recent five-game road trip and is a continuation of his unique journey, highlighted by his brief but memorable performance in a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he scored his first NBA points amidst a supportive home crowd. “It was insane,” Bronny remarked, noting the overwhelming love and support he felt during that game.
Since joining the Lakers as the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny has played in four games, averaging one point and three minutes on the court. His four-year contract, worth $7.9 million, was negotiated with agent Rich Paul, allowing for a standard deal rather than a two-way contract that is typically used for players transitioning between the NBA and G League.
This dual assignment reflects the Lakers’ commitment to developing Bronny’s skills while integrating him into the professional game. As a rising star in a basketball family, Bronny has an exciting journey ahead, with the potential for growth in both leagues.
In summary, Bronny James is set to navigate his rookie season by balancing gameplay in the G League and the NBA, providing him with ample opportunities to develop in his early career while garnering crucial experiences in front of passionate fans.