Holmgren shows Bronny love after second strong performance

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James. Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

Chet Holmgren shows Bronny James love after second strong Summer League performance

By Jeff Smith | Last updated Jul 19, 2024 9:03 AM ET

For the second game in as many nights, Bronny James showcased decisiveness, a well-rounded offensive game and the ability to find the bottom of the basket. Along with James' improved play came the Los Angeles Lakers' second consecutive win in 2024 Summer League play.

The Lakers defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers, 93-89, on Thursday night to move to 2-2 in summer league play. James' performance over the last two games has drawn plenty of attention, and the 19-year-old even put his clutch gene on display, knocking down a pivotal step-back three-pointer with three minutes remaining and the Lakers trailing by five.

That shot propelled the Lakers to end the game on a 9-0 run, with fellow rookie Dalton Knecht scoring six consecutive points following James' three to seal the victory.

There was no shortage of reactions to James' strong play, but on Thursday night, even a current pro or two chimed in. This included Oklahoma City Thunder big man Chet Holmgren, who responded to a post on X about James' stat line by taking a jab at the many critics of the Lakers guard.

Looked like a pro
— chet holmgren (@ChetHolmgren) July 19, 2024

Holmgren's comments weren't pointed at anyone specifically, but the timing is worth noting.

Earlier this week, Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown was in attendance for the Lakers' summer league game and appeared to say he doesn't "think Bronny is a pro." Brown addressed the viral moment shortly after with a post on X saying that Bronny "has all the tools around him to be successful."

Holmgren denied his comment was a shot at Brown, responding to a question shortly after his initial post.

James responded to two brutally tough games to begin summer league play. In the team's two losses, he shot just 4-of-19 from the field and missed all 11 of his three-point attempts.

But following a 5-of-11 shooting night (2-of-5 from beyond the arc) on Wednesday, James connected on five of his 10 shot attempts for 13 points while adding five rebounds, three assists and two blocks.

The Lakers get a night off on Friday before returning to action Saturday against the Chicago Bulls. If the last two games are any indication, James appears to have found a groove and snapped his early shooting slump, giving a glimpse of the upside some fans and media raved about.

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

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