After 16 games with the South Bay Lakers, the Los Angeles Lakers have provided an update on Bronny James’ development. Bronny, the 20-year-old son of NBA star LeBron James, has been primarily assigned to the G League affiliate since November 2024 to gain valuable playing experience. This strategy was outlined from the outset, with Lakers coach JJ Redick and general manager Rob Pelinka emphasizing its importance.
Throughout his tenure with the South Bay Lakers, Bronny has demonstrated significant growth. In a December 2024 game against the Valley Suns, he scored a career-high 30 points, showcasing his scoring ability. Later, in January 2025, he achieved a 31-point game in a victory over the Rip City Remix, further highlighting his offensive contributions.
Despite these achievements, Bronny’s role with the NBA team has been limited. He has participated in several games, including a historic debut where he and his father played together on October 22, 2024, marking the first father-son duo appearance in NBA history. However, his on-court time with the Lakers has been minimal, averaging just a few minutes per game.
Recently, Bronny addressed his current situation, expressing a commitment to continuous improvement. After a G League game where he scored 16 points, he stated, “I’m just working every day to get better, stay patient, and when my time comes, I’ll be ready.”
The Lakers’ approach has faced scrutiny. Some analysts argue that limiting Bronny’s travel by restricting him to home G League games might hinder his development. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst criticized this strategy, suggesting it could be “detrimental” to Bronny’s growth as a player.
In summary, the Lakers are carefully managing Bronny James’ transition into professional basketball, balancing his development between the NBA and G League. While his G League performances have been promising, his NBA opportunities remain limited. The organization continues to monitor his progress, aiming to integrate him more fully into the NBA roster as his experience and skills develop.
