Bronny James Faces Challenges in Early NBA and G League Career

When the Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James, the 20-year-old son of NBA superstar LeBron James, with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, expectations were a mix of hope and skepticism. While many speculated that Bronny would spend much of his rookie season in the G League, the Lakers surprised fans by signing him to a guaranteed NBA contract, keeping him on the roster from the start. However, despite the buzz surrounding his family name, Bronny’s early performances have raised some questions about his readiness for the big league.

Struggling to Find His Rhythm

Bronny James’ initial appearances in the NBA were not what many expected. Out of sync and unable to make an immediate impact, the Lakers reassigned him to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.

But in a move that caught many off guard, the Lakers imposed a unique condition: Bronny would only play in home games for South Bay, rejoining the NBA roster whenever the G League team traveled.

Despite the opportunity to develop in the G League, his performances have been underwhelming. In his debut on November 9, Bronny scored just six points on 22% shooting. His second appearance was equally lackluster, finishing with four points on 2-of-10 shooting, alongside two rebounds, two assists, and a block in a 127-122 loss.

The Road to Improvement: A Tough Lesson in the G League

Bronny’s struggles have not gone unnoticed. South Bay Lakers head coach Zach Guthrie offered a frank assessment of the young player’s challenges. “It’s about competing at a high level and playing the right way,” Guthrie explained. “We need to raise our collective intensity on the ball. It’s hard when you haven’t played at a high level your whole life. You have to learn to be physical, dictate the pace, and adapt to modern offenses. In the G League, there are no days off; every possession matters.”

These comments underscore the intense demands of professional basketball, even at the G League level. Bronny, who has had limited exposure to the high-stakes competition at this level, is learning that every aspect of his game must evolve to meet these standards.

The Struggles of Following Big Shoes

Bronny’s early career has also drawn comparisons to other G League standouts, such as Mac McClung, the 2024 G League MVP and two-time NBA Dunk Contest champion. Despite McClung’s success in the G League, he has struggled to secure a permanent spot on an NBA roster, highlighting the challenges Bronny faces in carving out his own path. While McClung’s NBA prospects remain uncertain, his struggles illustrate the steep climb even talented players face in securing a lasting NBA role.

With Bronny’s performance in the G League currently ranking 330th out of 336 players, it’s clear that the road ahead will be a challenging one. However, his time in the G League will provide crucial experience, and if he can adapt to the speed and intensity of professional basketball, he may still have a chance to thrive in the NBA.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Bronny James

Bronny James’ journey in the NBA and G League is just beginning, and while his early struggles are noteworthy, they are not uncommon for players adjusting to the professional game. The Lakers will likely continue to give him time to develop, balancing his role between the NBA roster and G League opportunities. For Bronny, the key will be learning from his setbacks and evolving his game to meet the expectations that come with his last name—and his potential.