Bronny James, a guard for USC, is facing serious doubts about his chances of being selected in the 2024 NBA draft due to his less-than-stellar stats for a rookie. When ESPN excluded LeBron James’ son from their 2024 mock draft, the LA Lakers player responded sharply, telling them to leave him alone and not put any pressure on him. Metta World Peace, the former NBA champion, believes that Bronny James still has time to improve.

 

Bronny, currently a freshman with the Trojans, was expected to declare for the 2024 NBA draft. However, rumors have circulated that he might choose not to enter the selection process this year after being left out of the mock draft. In a recent interview with TMZ, World Peace, a former Lakers player, expressed optimism about Bronny’s future in the NBA. He stated that Bronny still has the potential for a fantastic professional career despite a slow start to his rookie season.

 

The 2010 NBA champion believes that LeBron’s star son has the physical attributes of a future player. World Peace told TMZ, “I think he has a good chance, he has a great build, and he is very athletic. I don’t think he’s fully matured in his body yet. I’m not sure if he will end up in the top 50 all-time, but in terms of his potential to develop into a truly excellent player… a starting point guard.”

 

Bronny James’ underwhelming freshman season was one of the factors that kept him off the 2024 mock draft list. In support of Bronny, the 2004 Defensive Player of the Year stated that he still has time to improve. World Peace said, “Since he’s only a freshman, people are speculating about his stats, but can you think of another freshman who never averaged higher than a 4 or a 5 and had no chance of becoming a professional? Freshmen numbers are just that, numbers for freshmen.”

In his rookie season, Bronny James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. His field goal percentage of 36.6% is also a cause for concern. Based on these numbers, it would be challenging for any NBA team to select him.

 

LeBron James had previously expressed his desire to play with his son Bronny before his NBA career comes to an end, suggesting that he might stay in Los Angeles if the Lakers draft Bronny James. However, considering the current doubts surrounding Bronny’s prospects in the 2024 draft, it seems unlikely that father and son will play together in the league.

To retain their star player, the Lakers reportedly have an interest in drafting LeBron James’ older son. The four-time NBA champion has a $51.4 million player option in 2024-2025, allowing him to sign with any team in the league.

LeBron James remains one of the NBA’s most marketable players, and any team signing him would gain access to a significant market. The Lakers are expected to make every effort to keep their valuable player, which is one reason why some NBA teams might consider selecting Bronny James in hopes of signing his father.

Even at the age of 39, LeBron James is averaging 25.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game in his 21st season. He continues to be a valuable contributor to his team.