NBA Material or Not?

Does Bronny James have what it takes to be in the NBA? Recently, NBA superstar Lebron James’s son Bronny James attended the NBA’s Draft Combine, where many witnessed the USC player display a 40.5-inch vertical and his impressive 6-foot-7 wingspan, which is fantastic coming from someone who is only 6’1. However, these physical attributes do not matter if the skillset isn’t there. Many have doubted that he belongs in the league, especially with only averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 25 games for the USC Trojans.

Bronny James participated in the first 2024 NBA Draft Combine scrimmage, providing a platform to showcase his skills. Despite his self-proclaimed height of 6’4, he measured three inches shorter. This discrepancy was noticeable on the court, where he appeared to be one of the smallest players and, at times, struggled to assert himself. He played for approximately 18 minutes, managing to score a few baskets.

During that game, he went two for eight, missing all three-pointers, giving him a total of four points scored with three turnovers, showcasing the inability to compete at a higher level. However, in his second scrimmage, James redeemed himself by putting up 13 points, two assists, one rebound, and two turnovers in under 23 minutes. When asked about the game, the younger James replied, “I always try to play the right way, but my teammates and my coaches encouraged me to be aggressive today because they believe in me. I’m comfortable playing the one or the two, on-ball or off-ball. They put me in a good position today to produce and be great.”

The younger James’s game showed he is eager to play, and he showcased his ability to compete beyond a college level on Tuesday night. Although he has undeniable talent, I believe he should continue playing at the college level for at least two more years so that he can develop as a player. What are your thoughts?