Bronny James Impresses in G League Debut
Second-year Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James made a significant impact in his G League debut on Friday, returning to the South Bay Lakers after starting the season on the roster. In an electrifying performance, James scored 15 points, secured four rebounds, and dished out eight assists. He showcased his shooting capability by going 5-for-10 from the field, including 2-for-5 from three-point range. While he recorded three turnovers, he also demonstrated his defensive prowess with three steals, underscoring his ability to influence the game at both ends.
A Season of Development
Bronny’s early season with the Lakers saw him averaging just 2.1 points over 11.1 minutes per game across ten appearances. His playing time was partly due to his father, the legendary LeBron James, being sidelined at the beginning of the season, alongside Gabe Vincent’s early injury. Last season, during his rookie campaign, Bronny spent a substantial amount of time in the G League, where he made a name for himself by averaging 21.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.9 steals per game.
Focus Areas for Growth
In a recent conversation with Lakers reporter Raj Chipalu, Bronny outlined his goals for his return to South Bay. “I’m trying to focus now on bettering myself off the ball,” he stated. He acknowledged the importance of adapting to the dynamic within the Lakers’ roster, which is filled with ball handlers. “Me and J.J. have talked about how all the ball handlers on the parent team are,” he continued. “So I’ve got to learn to be effective off the ball and have a .5 mentality—shoot the ball when I have it, when I have an open shot.”
Striving for Balance
With the G League providing a platform for him to refine his skills, Bronny is keen on balancing his role as both an on-ball facilitator and an off-ball player. He expressed his determination to produce as much as he can during this developmental stint. “I’m just trying to get better at that,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to growth.
As Bronny embarks on this chapter with the South Bay Lakers, his performance serves not only as a showcase of his talent but also as a testament to his dedication to improving his game while navigating the complexities of playing in the shadow of his father.
