Bronny James Makes NBA Draft Decision

James still has until May 29 to withdraw from the draft. That said, if he’s leaning towards staying, James is either receiving promising intel or just feels particularly confident in his ability to rise up draft boards. He may also even —as former NBA star Baron Davis mentions—feel more comfortable with the NBA’s style of play than the NCAA’s.

Bronny James Expected to Remain in NBA Draft

After a highly anticipated college decision, James opted to play for the USC Trojans.

He could have went to Oregon, a school that’s churned out several current NBA players. His home state Ohio State Buckeyes were also an option. However, James chose to stay close to his family, which proved to be a fateful decision

His anomalous medical concerns aside, James had as poor of a freshman season as possible. In 25 games, James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 0.8 steals in 19.3 minutes per game. Even worse, he shot 36.6 percent from the field and 26.7 percent from 3. The six games that James started were no better, with him averaging 6.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists per game while shooting 32.6 percent from the field and 22.7 percent from 3.

His lack of touch undermined his feel for the game. His passivity shrouded his playmaking potential in mystery. James’ defense looks like it will translate to the next level. Yet, even the best defenders in the NBA need to be able to make a consistent impact on offense.

It’s Time to Make Noise

That being said, the NBA Draft Combine is a great opportunity for James to make some noise.

Depending on his workout activity, his build and explosiveness may attract teams looking for players that are physically ready for the NBA. In the scrimmages, he’ll have an opportunity to put his basketball IQ and passing ability on display. New skills that James may have developed since the end of the 2023-24 season might be seen as well. To that point, teams will almost certainly be interested in seeing if he’s improved as a ball-handler and finished. Practice is different than game action but his performance in shooting drills could renew confidence in his 3-point stroke.