Bronny James, the promising young guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, has shown flashes of his potential in the NBA Summer League. Despite early struggles, the 6-foot-2 shooting guard finished his final two games with a respectable 25 points on 10-of-21 shooting. A notable improvement, considering his three-point shooting woes, where he initially missed all 15 attempts before converting 3 of 8 in his last outings.
During his time in the Summer League, Bronny faced challenges, reflecting a broader storyline of adaptation and growth. His overall shooting performance in the initial games, just 7 for 31, underscored a period of adjustment to the professional level. However, his perseverance and resilience were evident. "He had two pretty good games last two. I think it's just going to help him going into the summer so we can work on different things with him. Just that confidence and knowing he can play at this level. It's still going to take a lot of time and a lot of reps," said Dane Johnson, the Lakers Summer League coach.
Selected as the 55th pick in the NBA draft by the Lakers, Bronny's journey is already marked by significant milestones and obstacles. Beyond the court, he faced a significant health scare last summer, suffering cardiac arrest during a workout at the University of Southern California. Surgery revealed a congenital heart defect, an event that not only paused his budding career but also heightened the stakes of his return to basketball. Despite these challenges, Bronny declared for the NBA draft after a solid college season at USC, where he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists.
As the Lakers look to the future, they are considering developing Bronny into a combo guard. His current position as a shooting guard might evolve, given his ability to pick up plays, coverages, and defensive schemes quickly. "I think right now he's more of a (shooting guard), but I think he could be a combo-ish. He picks up stuff really well. We throw stuff at him -- plays, coverages, defensively. He kind of picks it up really quick, so I think he could potentially be (a point guard)," Johnson remarked.
Concerns remain regarding Bronny's ballhandling and the need for a more consistent perimeter shot. Nonetheless, his performances against teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers demonstrated his capability to compete at a professional level. The Lakers are likely to utilize the G League as a platform for Bronny's development, providing him with the necessary experience and refinement required for the NBA.
In the broader context of sports history, Bronny's presence on the Lakers’ roster adds an element of intrigue. No father-and-son duo has ever played simultaneously in an NBA game. While baseball witnessed the tandem of Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. in 1990 and 1991 with the Seattle Mariners, and hockey saw Gordie Howe skate alongside his sons, Marty and Mark, in the WHA and NHL, basketball awaits its moment.
Throughout these trials and triumphs, Bronny’s attitude and approach to the game have been commendable. "In general, he doesn't let any of that stuff get to him. He just wants to play basketball and be on a team. He's a good kid. He's listening. He's trying to learn," Johnson shared, painting a picture of a young athlete grounded in his ambition and dedication.
As the Lakers and Bronny James continue their journey, the narrative of growth, adaptation, and potential remains at the forefront. With the right development and opportunities, Bronny holds the promise of not only living up to the legacy of his surname but carving out his own unique path in the annals of NBA history.