Playing for the Los Angeles Lakers brings its own spotlight. Pairing that with being the son of one of the greatest players in history, LeBron James, only heightened the expectations on Bronny James’ shoulders.
In a conversation on Grant Hovart Golf, Bronny offered a candid look at the whirlwind of emotions from his rookie campaign.
“It was nuts, it was crazy,” he admitted. “A crazy experience to be a part of, but like the nervousness. It was out of the roof.
“I wasn’t shaking, but you know, I was ready to go out and play, but it’s different when your dad’s on the team.”
Pressure in purple and gold
Bronny also admitted that the psychological side of the game was just as challenging as the physical leap to the professional level.
“You got expectations,” he said. “The Lakers franchise has expectations. Yeah, for sure, I’m a basketball head, so it was fun to just be out there and step on an NBA floor for the first time. It was crazy.”
Before his debut, speculation had already been intense. Rumors swirled leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft that the Lakers would select him in order to pair father and son.
Critics questioned whether it was a basketball decision or one based on marketing and legacy. Those doubts quieted when the Lakers chose him with the 55th overall pick, making clear that the plan was developmental.
Bronny would split time between the main roster and the G League’s South Bay Lakers, learning the ropes while gaining valuable experience.
Finding footing in the league
Statistically, Bronny’s first season was modest. He appeared in 27 games, averaging 2.3 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in just under seven minutes per contest.
Still, those numbers do not tell the full story. The young guard showed flashes of the instincts and discipline that made him a second-round pick.
More importantly, he demonstrated the ability to handle the unique pressure that came with being both a Laker and LeBron’s son.
While some questioned whether he was ready, Bronny’s reflections reveal a player aware of the weight of his situation and determined to grow from it.
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