Bronny James‘ yet another debut. But this time it was for the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G League. He was on the floor against the Salt Lake City Stars along with Lakers’ promising newbie, Quincy Olivari. While Olivari scored a solid 28 points, James Jr. had to settle with 6 points in his opening game. With three rebounds, 4 assists, two steals, and 1 block, Bronny helped the Lakers win 110-96. But, as always, the detractors are taking a jab at the 20-year-old for his ‘lackluster’ G League debut.

However, Bronny James has support this time—it’s Quincy Olivari. The Xavier alumna took his chance to call out critics for how harsh they’ve been lately. Well, it looks like Olivari has found himself in the ‘good books’ of naysayers but in Bronny’s case, the rookie has yet to impress them. So, at the post-game presser, the 23-year-old point guard, defending James Jr. said:

“To have Bronny out there looking like how we did, I was just happy to see him get out there and show the world that he can play. I think I’m a big advocate of pushing that he is a great basketball player and that the criticism he gets is unfair. But to see him go out there, have fun along with Maxwell Lewis to go out there and show that he can also hoop, it was just great to see.”

Bronny James has faced endless criticism for his performance in the summer league, NBA preseason, and regular season. Many believe that he’s simply “a product of nepotism.” And as a second-round pick, he requires more patience. But, Quincy Olivari, the undrafted hooper, deserves more recognition as he outplays LeBron James’ son.

Speaking of LeBron James, the NBA vet, seems to have some words of advice for Olivari. This has everything to do with his stint at the G League. Therefore, one may wonder if the legend has given advice to another player and imagine the suggestions he’s given to his firstborn, Bronny.

Not just Bronny James, but LeBron is also guiding Quincy Olivari

Quincy Olivari is leading the South Bay Lakers in the G League. So, it’s not hard to guess, that he has many more responsibilities than anyone else. On the other hand, Bronny James has a lot more to give to the game than anyone else. But, Olivari finds it kind of weird, “having to flip so aggressively from being the learner and the question asker to now being the leader and the question answerer,” he told LeBron. In return, the nearly 40-year-old, LA Lakers playmaker advised the rook.

“One of the first things is to take advantage of your breaks,” James Sr. told the point guard. “But just most importantly, just to lead, make sure your guys are organized and when we out there, put them in position because people are gonna look to me, I know what I’m talking about as far as the setup of the offense. And as long as I’m respectful, people will listen.”

Well, LeBron was present courtside along with Savannah and Zhuri to watch Bronny James win his first G League game. There can be no greater support than to have one’s family in the audience. But, well, the truth of James Jr.’s South Bay journey is experience. Even if JJ Redick calls this move his “test case No.1,” it’s clear that he wants Bronny James to get accustomed to the leagues and return as a stronger, better player.

Bronny James’ G League debut may have received mixed reviews, but teammates like Quincy Olivari and his father, LeBron, provide strong support. Critics focus on his early performance, but Bronny’s journey centers on growth, experience, and learning. With guidance from seasoned players and his family’s presence, he’s ready to refine his skills and prove the doubters wrong. The road to greatness isn’t smooth, but Bronny is just beginning his journey.