ESPN NBA Draft expert projects Bronny James as a top-10 pick in 2024
The impressive senior campaign of Sierra Canyon's Bronny James has contributed to his rise in the class of 2023 recruit rankings, and he's now climbing up draft boards.
On Wednesday, ESPN NBA Draft analyst Jonathan Givony released his 2024 mock draft with James, son of the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James, projected as the 10th overall pick. Givony's mock order, based on ESPN's projections, predicts the Orlando Magic to select James.
A 6-foot-3 combo guard, James ranks 33rd in 247Sports' 2023 composite rankings and is the highest-rated recruit still undecided on his future.
While it may be shocking that James' draft stock is so high considering his recruit ranking, Givony writes that NBA teams are "disappointed" with the talent in this class. The draft expert also notes that major high school recruiting analysts have differing views on the order of top prospects because they don't believe any are premier NBA prospects.
In Givony's opinion, James' game has significantly evolved, causing him to stand out more than the other 2023 recruits, who've had underwhelming senior seasons.
Like his father, James is an excellent decision-maker with a high IQ. Although his offensive game is still a work in progress, he shines on defense. Givony credits James' physical maturation, explosiveness, and aggressiveness on the defensive end as to why he has "earned his spot in lottery conversations."
The McDonald's All-American is "developing into arguably the best perimeter defender in his high school class while making strides in his perimeter shooting and playmaking ability," Givony writes.
James will need to further develop as a ballhandler and become a better shot-creator, Givony says, but his style of play is drawing the attention of NBA personnel. Executives have faith that James can majorly impact a team's success.
As 3-and-D specialists have never been more valuable in the NBA, James could carve out a long career for himself, especially if his shooting improves.
James' father could also impact his draft position, as the Lakers forward desires to play alongside his son. However, that's unlikely to happen if Orlando drafts the current high schooler.
The four-time champion said he would never play for Orlando after his experience playing in the bubble in 2020. During a 2021 episode of "The Shop: Uninterrupted," LeBron said the Magic had "no chance" of signing him in free agency and would retire if Orlando ever traded for him.
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