USC Trojans guard Bronny James. Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Bronny James takes huge step toward launching NBA career

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 5/13/24

Bronny James’ NBA hopes took a major step forward Monday ahead of the NBA Combine.

James has been medically cleared to play in the NBA by the league’s Fitness to Play panel, according to multiple reports. The decision comes nine months after James underwent a procedure to repair a congenital heart defect.

ESPN Sources with @Draftexpress: In the aftermath of his cardiac arrest and a procedure to repair a congenital heart defect nine months ago, the NBA’s Fitness to Play panel has medically cleared USC’s Bronny James to be drafted and play in the league. Story soon. pic.twitter.com/P8ci337NrA

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 13, 2024

Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that James is expected to remain in the draft and not return to college.

Sources: Bronny James is expected to stay in the 2024 NBA Draft. The USC freshman has been fully cleared to play in the league as part of Fitness to Play panel and will participate in all pre-draft activities starting with the Draft Combine this week. pic.twitter.com/UDf3HanCAS

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 13, 2024

James had a massive health scare last July, when he collapsed after suffering a cardiac arrest. Ultimately, James wound up playing for USC after receiving medical clearance, and the heart issue appears to be firmly behind him.

The likely decision to stay in the draft might come as a surprise to some teams, who had previously expected him to return to school. As a freshman, he did not make a major impact for the Trojans, averaging just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 19.4 minutes per game with USC.

The question now is if and where James will be drafted. All eyes will be on the Los Angeles Lakers, who might pair him with his father. LeBron, however, might not be as desperate to play with his son as was previously believed.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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