USC freshman guard Bronny James, who is the son of Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, has decided to forgo his remaining collegiate eligibility and will remain in the 2024 NBA draft. His agent, Rich Paul from Klutch Sports, confirmed this decision moments before the NCAA deadline on Wednesday. This move comes after a strong pre-draft process where James’ draft prospects went from being on the fringe to becoming a viable option for NBA teams.
According to Rich Paul, the CEO of Klutch Sports, Bronny James has a wide range in the draft, highlighting his potential for growth as a player. Paul emphasized the importance of finding the right team that has a solid plan for development, providing the necessary opportunity, and offering a suitable financial commitment. With his decision to stay in the draft, James is looking for a team that aligns with his long-term goals and aspirations.
Each NBA team has the option to offer three two-way contracts in addition to their 15 regular roster spots. These deals are often extended to second-round picks and undrafted players, allowing them to split their time between the NBA and G League. Despite his strong showing at the NBA draft combine, Bronny James and his team have opted against pursuing a two-way deal, signaling their confidence in finding a permanent spot on an NBA roster.
Bronny James’ freshman season at USC was marked by challenges, including a cardiac arrest episode in July that required medical intervention for a congenital heart defect. This setback delayed his college debut until mid-December, where he showed glimpses of his potential on the court. Despite his contributions, USC had a disappointing season, finishing near the bottom of the Pac-12 standings.
As the NBA draft approaches, Paul and his team are working on a strategy to navigate team workouts and interactions with potential suitors. With the draft just a month away, the focus is on identifying the best opportunities for James to showcase his skills and impress NBA teams. While there is speculation about the possibility of James ending up with the Lakers due to his father’s connection, Paul emphasized that the ultimate goal is to find the right fit for James, regardless of team affiliation.
Despite his pedigree as LeBron James’ son, Bronny James is being managed with caution to avoid unrealistic expectations. While he has shown promise as a player, there is recognition that he is still a work in progress and has room for growth. Paul underscored that the focus is on positioning James for long-term success in the NBA, even if it means going undrafted and exploring other opportunities as a free agent.
Bronny James’ decision to forego his remaining collegiate eligibility and stay in the 2024 NBA draft signals his commitment to pursuing a career in professional basketball. With the support of his agent Rich Paul and the backing of Klutch Sports, James is poised to make a mark in the NBA and carve out his path in the league, separate from his father’s legacy. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on James as he takes the next steps towards achieving his dream of playing in the NBA.
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