Keep Up With Global Black News

Sign up to our newsletter to get the latest updates and events from the leading Afro-Diaspora publisher straight to your inbox.

STEPHEN Nartey
BY Stephen Nartey, 12:40pm January 30, 2025,

Why Bronny James might not be ready for the NBA quite yet

STEPHEN Nartey
by Stephen Nartey, 12:40pm January 30, 2025,
LeBron James and his son Bronny -- Photo via LeBron James on Instagram

Bronny James faced a tough outing during the Lakers’ 118-104 loss to the 76ers. He struggled defensively against Tyrese Maxey, who targeted the rookie guard throughout the game.

James went 0-for-5 from the field, committed three turnovers in 15 minutes, and recorded a -9 plus/minus in the first quarter — one of the worst performances in the NBA on Tuesday, according to the New York Post.

“Maybe put him in a tough spot,” Lakers coach JJ Redick told reporters about giving James his first extended minutes with the team. “Flying up yesterday, nationally televised game in Philly and all that stuff. He didn’t play well, but he’s been playing great in the stay-ready games, and he’s been playing great in the G [League].”

James, previously limited to brief appearances in decided games, saw extended minutes during the Lakers’ 118-104 loss to the 76ers.

Early in the game, Maxey isolated James and scored with ease before the rookie committed a turnover that led to a 76ers transition basket.

James defended four shots in the first quarter, allowing three scores as Maxey dominated with 43 points in the victory.

“He’s a fast guard,” James said of Maxey. “Amazing touch. Can shoot it. I was trying to stand my ground. Just trying to play as hard as I can and bring as much energy as I can. That’s all.”

James earned his first significant minutes with the Lakers after a standout performance for the South Bay Lakers on Friday, where he scored a career-high 31 points. He admitted he was surprised by the call-up following his impressive G-League showing.

“It just came out of nowhere, so I was always trying to stay ready to play and always keeping my mind right,” he said.

READ ALSO: Man, 60, graduates college and makes deceased mom’s wish come true

Redick noted that the decision to play James was partly due to the Lakers facing the second half of a back-to-back after defeating the Hornets on Monday night.

“Just felt like on a back-to-back, just him giving us energy, I think, was the goal,” Redick said. “I have confidence in him, but obviously didn’t provide that at a high level.”

LeBron James expressed confidence that his son would improve with time.

“Obviously, it’s his first extensive minutes with us,” LeBron said. “We had that first game where it was just a moment — and that was a great moment. But tonight was his first opportunity to be with the big guys, be with the big club, and he’s going to continue to use that and get better and better.”

The Lakers, now 26-19, are aiming to strengthen their roster ahead of the February 6 trade deadline but faced a setback as star Anthony Davis sustained an abdominal strain and missed most of Tuesday’s game.

The Lakers could face serious challenges if Davis remains sidelined, as their roster lacks depth to compensate for his or LeBron’s absence.

The team is set to play the Wizards on Friday, followed by a back-to-back matchup against the Knicks on Saturday.

Last Edited by:Mildred Europa Taylor Updated: January 30, 2025

Conversations

Close

Must Read

Connect with us

Join our Mailing List to Receive Updates

Face2face Africa | Afrobeatz+ | BlackStars

Keep Up With Global Black News and Events

Sign up to our newsletter to get the latest updates and events from the leading Afro-Diaspora publisher straight to your inbox, plus our curated weekly brief with top stories across our platforms.