By now, even Bronny James has learned by heart that he isn’t ready for the NBA. His detractors have chanted this statement like a mantra since the day they announced him as the 55th draft pick. However, critics followed LeBron’s firstborn into the NBA G League. The 20-year-old point guard’s debut game for the South Bay Lakers was lackluster to put things subtly. Therefore, even his former appreciators have withdrawn their support. For example, the Denver Nuggets ex-HC George Karl.

Bronny James finished the game scoring six points, grabbing three rebounds, dishing four assists, and swiping two steals. His jump shot showed that it was still a work in progress as he shot two of nine from the field. Although the Lakers won 110-96 against the Salt Lake City Stars, Bronny’s performance turned into an eyesore.

So, George Karl penned down his thoughts via X. He tweeted: “Is Legion Hoops trying to create news by showing Bronny is bad, like everyone knew he would be?? This ain’t news”

Surprisingly, Coach Karl was one of those people who welcomed Bronny James’ NBA drafting. He even expressed his enthusiasm for seeing the father-son duo share the floor for the LA Laker. But, unfortunately, James Jr.’s disappointing run so far seems to have disheartened the ex-NBA coach.

Bronny James’ anticlimactic G League debut led Coach Karl to retract his earlier praise and promise

As a former coach of the Denver Nuggets, it is only natural for George Karl to be a certified Lakers critic. In the past, his hatred for the Purple and Gold was so intense, and things elevated to such levels, that the vet had to apologize to the fans. He once tweeted: “Dear Lakers Fans, I was not kind towards you this season. I let my Sports Hate go too far. I have deep respect for the Lakers and consider them the greatest sports team of the past 50 years. I’m sorry. Let’s live, learn, and love together again. Ok? Coach Karl.” The USC alumna didn’t exactly make up for his inefficient scoring outing by contributing in other ways either. Therefore, the ex-NBA wasn’t surprised by the 20YO’s subpar performance.

Moreover, thanks to Bronny James’ underwhelming five-game NBA stint and equally disheartening G League, George Karl, broke off his promise. Moreover, earlier this year when the younger James was announced as the 55th pick, it was Coach Karl who congratulated the father-son duo and tried to silence the naysayers. He tweeted: “Show me a father who wouldn’t have immense pride to work or play with their son on a big stage ❤️” 

Bronny James’ lackluster performances in both the NBA and G League have led to a shift in support. Coach George Karl, once an advocate for Bronny, has now retracted his earlier praise. Despite his initial excitement about the father-son duo, the 20-year-old’s struggles have dimmed the optimism. Karl’s disillusionment reflects the reality many have anticipated since Bronny’s draft.