LeBron James ‘ first son Bronny James shook the NBA world as he announced his availability at the 2024 NBA draft. The USC Trojans guard has only spent one year in college basketball before deciding to enter to be a professional player. The decision received many reactions from NBA fans as it was not expected of him to take this decision so soon.
LeBron James in the past has expressed his desire to play with Bronny before he decides to retire. Bronny entering the NBA draft may be a step towards fulfilling James’ desire. However, NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley does not like the idea of the father-son teammates combination. Barkley expressed his thoughts on the topic on CNN’s broadcast.
I don’t want him [LeBron] to play with his son. I want his son to develop his own name. If he goes to LeBron’s team, I think it would put too much of a spotlight on him because LeBron’s the brightest star of this generation. Charles Barkley said
Barkley believes that Bronny James needs to play without the four-time champion by his side to grow as a player. According to the veteran, considering the Lakers star’s limelight, playing with him will only put pressure on Bronny’s performance. Further Barkley hoped for Bronny’s great NBA career but without his dad’s stardom next to him.
Barkley’s statement may have some truth as the expectations for Bronny will rise even more if the college athlete plays next to one of the best players in the league. With entering for the draft, Bronny will still be eligible to play in college next year.
Paul Pierce says Bronny is declaring NBA draft because of LeBron James
Bronny James’ declaration for the NBA draft just after his freshman year at USC generated confusion in the NBA world. To clear people’s confusion, NBA veteran Paul Pierce gave his perspective on the reason behind Bronny’s early entrance in the draft.
While discussing on Fox’s Undisputed, Pierce believed that Bronny’s father, LeBron is the reason behind his decision. A few days ago, the 39-year-old admitted that he is near the finishing line of his career in the league. According to Pierce, Bronny is taking his chance to play in the league to team up with his dad.
I believe this is a domino effect of what LeBron said the other day... 'I don't have much time left'. So, he wants to play with his son, this is the time now. Paul Pierce said
Bronny’s first year as a USC Trojan has been full of ups and downs. The player went through cardiac arrest last July which affected Bronny’s stats this season. The player is only averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists which might make it difficult for him to get drafted in the NBA.
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