An In-Depth Breakdown: Bronny James 2024 Lakers Summer League Review

By Edcel Panganiban July 18, 2024 15:07

credit. Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

The pressure and expectations were real as Bronny James- the son of LeBron James made his highly anticipated debut in the NBA world. Bronny, the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, was under immense pressure to live up to his famous father's name and he did just that last night.

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Though Bronny's first few games in the NBA Summer League started kind of rocky, he was able to find his rhythm during a stretch and averaged 4.3 points on just 22.6% shooting from the floor every game. Less than two weeks into Bryant's tenure as a high school senior, the Lakers played at Atlanta and their hotshot rookie received some overdue playing time in creating what remains his first truly signature game.

A Breakout Performance

In the game against the Hawks, Bronny James shone brightly, finishing with 12 points on an efficient 5-of-11 shooting, including a clutch 3-pointer late in the game that helped the Lakers secure their first Summer League victory. This was a significant improvement from his previous outings, where he had been unable to consistently find the bottom of the net.

"I feel like I know the right way to play," James said after the game. "So if I go out there and play my game every game, results like that will come." This mindset, instilled by his father, has been a driving force behind Bronny's development, as he continues to learn and adapt to the professional game.

Overcoming Adversity

Bronny's journey to the NBA has not been without its challenges. Last year, he was sidelined for the start of the college basketball season after undergoing a procedure to fix a congenital heart defect that was discovered after he went into cardiac arrest during a workout. This setback could have derailed the young player's dreams, but Bronny's resilience and determination shone through, as he returned to the court and finished the season strong.

A Promising Future

Bronny's impressive performance in the Summer League has not gone unnoticed, with many experts and analysts praising his growth and potential. "Reed Sheppard, for example, has blown me away with his feel for the game and confidence," one NBA executive told ESPN. "These guys are different players now than they were in March. Their bodies have gotten better. They are more explosive. And they've all been working on their game like crazy. This is going to be a fun group to follow."

As Bronny James prepares to embark on his NBA journey, the excitement and anticipation surrounding him are palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will develop and contribute to the Lakers' roster, with many believing that he has the potential to become a star in his own right.

In the End

Bronny James' impressive Summer League debut has not only showcased his basketball skills but also his resilience and determination. Despite the immense pressure and expectations placed upon him, the young player has proven that he is more than just a famous name, and that he is ready to carve out his own path in the NBA. As the basketball world eagerly awaits the start of the 2024-25 season, all eyes will be on Bronny James, as he takes the first steps towards fulfilling his destiny and living up to the legacy of his legendary father.