Lakers Make Bronny James Decision After Illness

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Jan 19, 2025 2:37 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers rookie Bronny James, the son of LeBron James, has appeared in nine NBA games throughout the 2024-25 season. However, he hasn't been able to be much of a factor, tallying just four points and three assists in nearly 22 minutes of action.

Bronny's latest two NBA games came in early January against the Atlanta Hawks and the Dallas Mavericks, with both appearances coming in garbage time. However, over the next couple of Lakers games, Bronny dealt with an illness. The former USC Trojans standout has not seen the NBA court since.

On Sunday, Los Angeles ultimately decided to reassign Bronny to its G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, per Trevor Lane of Lakers Nation. Forward Jarred Vanderbilt will be joining the rookie as well.

The Los Angeles Lakers have assigned guard Bronny James and forward Jarred Vanderbilt to the South Bay Lakers.
— Trevor Lane (@Trevor_Lane) January 19, 2025

Bronny hasn't seen any G League action since a Dec. 27-28 doubleheader against the Cleveland Charge back in his hometown. Bronny has seen action in nine G League games and has picked up his play since his first road game with South Bay on Dec. 12.

In 27.9 minutes per game in the G League, Bronny is averaging 14.7 points on 37.9 percent shooting, 4.4 rebounds and 4.4 assists.

Vanderbilt, on the other hand, was likely assigned to South Bay as part of his injury rehabilitation process. The forward has yet to see any action so far this season due to a foot issue.

The decision to assign Bronny to South Bay comes just days ahead of its road matchup against the Stockton Kings on Wednesday. Then, South Bay will return home for a battle with the Rip City Remix on Friday.

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

More must-reads: