(PartiallyPolitics.com) – Bronny James, son of Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, declared for the 2024 NBA Draft, however, he was not drafted after the first round. During his time at the University of Southern California (USC), he had a limited basketball performance, as he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game in his freshman year.
His draft prospects were affected even further by possible health concerns as in July 2023 he had experienced cardiac arrest and was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. However, he was later medically cleared to play. His clearance was only confirmed by sources last month.
LeBron James has stated that he would want to play with his son in the NBA, but Rich Paul, his agent has argued that this is not the primary motivation for them. He added that whether LeBron chooses to re-sign with the Lakers or pursue other opportunities would not hinge on Bronny’s draft status. He also dismissed the idea that LeBron would use his potential free agency to force the Lakers to draft his son.
As the draft continued, the Lakers used their No. 17 pick to select Tennessee’s Dalton Knecht, leaving their No. 55 pick in the second round as a potential opportunity for Bronny. LeBron’s future also remains uncertain as he approaches his 22nd NBA season with the possibility of becoming a free agent.
Bronny’s undrafted status in the first round was expected and does not necessarily mean that his aspirations to join the NBA are completely lost.
Bronny was eventually drafted by the Lakers with the 55th pick in the second round.
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