Bryce James Already Has NBA Insiders Hooked as Rumors of NCAA Offers Swirl After Team USA Gig

All the chatter around the NBA Draft is currently focused on Bronny. His father, LeBron James’ inclination towards playing on the hardwood with his son is the root cause. Although he’s doing better than last year, people still feel there’s room for improvement. And interestingly, he doesn’t need to look far for inspiration (or competition; however you want to look at it) – his younger brother, Bryce, who is blessed with his father’s natural athleticism.

Yes, people have a natural inclination towards LeBron’s youngest son. Bryce’s pedigree and acumen for basketball is surprising, considering he just turned 17 on June 14. His passion is reflected in his journey so far as a student at Sierra Canyon, where he recently finished his junior year. And the fact that ESPN touts him as #21 in all of California speaks volumes about why he’s a craze among fans, analysts, and basketball scouts across the US.

In Saturday’s episode of The Odd Couple Show, even the hosts couldn’t refrain from talking about him and his future. During their discussions, a peculiar point came up: “Have you seen much of Bryce?” Chris Broussard asked. Ephraim Salaam responded, “He’s much bigger [than Bronny]. He’s 6’5.” In fact, Broussard even pointed out, “I’ve heard he’s a better prospect than Bronny.” Bryce has shown a more diverse skill set than his brother.

That said, it’s not just their heights. It’s their overall performance as well. Bryce shoots well. He is already going beyond the high-school 3-pointer line and will likely only improve. Plus, he finishes the games off nicely. He’s decent with his shoot-off movements, with multiple ways of tackling the ball on the floor, giving his team the advantage of winning. In May 2024, Bryce dropped 21 points against Cameron Boozer as his father watched their gameplay. It brings us to the perspective of whether Bryce really is better than Bronny.

Interestingly, NBA Insider Brian Windhorst also showcased a certain belief in Bryce when he was on the Bill Simmons Podcast in 2o23. “LeBron’s more naturally talented son appears to be Bryce,” he admitted. However, height is not all that matters to be a prospect in the NBA. For instance, look at Jalen Brunson, who’s just about 6’2. Considering their comparable heights, Broussard and Salaam immediately compared Bronny to the New York Knicks star guard.

Bronny, a 6 ‘1 guard, will have a tough time in the NBA unless he has something more to offer. “[His height] a tough sell in the NBA,” claimed Salaam. However, in the case of Jalen Brunson, despite the size disadvantage, he has developed himself into a lethal force on the court. On the other side, the 19-year-old also has a bunch of issues heading into the Draft.

Will Bryce James supersede Bronny’s effort?

The Suns, who looked like front-runners to draft the youngster, seem to have backed out. The latest report related to the Suns’ draft attempt revealed that the team might trade down their pick for better scouts. On the other hand, the Lakers seem unsure of picking the rising star in the 17th pick since they have other prospects like Zack Eddey.

While Bronny’s future in the league hangs by a thin thread, Bryce James has had an impressive personal run. The 17-year-old recently made it to the national side for the U17 team for the FIBA WC 2-day training camp. LeBron’s son made it alongside stars like Kiyan Anthony, Cayden Boozer, Tahj Ariza, and Cameron Boozer! Attractive NCAA offers like Duquesne, USC, and Ohio State are already coming his way following his success. Moreover, standing tall at 6’5, the youngster could grow taller in the years to come. Maybe even taller than his father, who’s 6’9.

Despite the athleticism Bronny James showcased in his high school games, it all went in vain after his freshman year run. The 19-year-old star had a cardiac arrest ahead of the college season and missed out on a lot of his preparation. And it showed on the court, as he averaged only 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. Later, many argued that he should play another year in college. He, however, shut down everyone after declaring for the Draft.

The only way Bronny can shut down his critics is by putting up a show in his rookie season. On the other hand, Bryce, a 3-star prospect and the 21st-best player in the state, has a different story altogether. He has been adjudged “naturally talented” right from the beginning and has many colleges interested. However, it’s unfair to determine the best without their entry into the professional league. So, when you really nail it down, Bryce might have a higher ceiling if he continues working on himself and his skills. But at the end of the day, both brothers have their individual journeys.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video: