More than 120 prospects have gathered in Chicago to test their skills at the NBA’s pre-draft combine. Some of the finest collegiate athletes are sowing seeds of a potential NBA future. Among those in the fight to make his place is Bronny James, the 19-year-old son of legendary forward LeBron James. Thanks to his last name alone, a truckload of expectations were bestowed upon Bronny’s shoulder.

After a poor freshman season, alluding to a cardiac accident, Bronny James made the controversial choice to declare for the NBA draft. Many pundits were bemused by his decision. The teenager did show flashes of NBA-level play; however, the sample size didn’t seem enough. But Bronny shot out all such concerns, displaying a sublime level of mastery during each of the combine’s drills.

His shooting, which happens to be his X-factor, lit up the arena. Bronny James shot 19-25 in the shooting drills while recording a magnificent 40.5-inch vertical jump. His performance in the combine proved the needed skills to walk amongst the NBA fraternity. Moreover, Bronny’s conversations later stood as proof of his maturity. At 19, his modest aspirations impressed Gilbert Arenas, who applauded the teen for his commitment to the cause.

Bronny James is not ducking any smoke

Arenas is somewhat aware of the promise Bronny James holds in his talents. LeBron James had once requested to work out his elder son. Back then, GilbertArenas witnessed the ‘killer’ hidden within Bronny. Now, it was almost full circle seeing one of his trainees in the run for an NBA roster spot. Agent Zero felt Bronny’s aspirations were similar to those of Jrue Holiday, including their plays. He was astounded at Bronny, who was conscious of his role during the game. Later, Gilbert shared further praise as Bronny was caught fighting over his spot at the combine.

“You know what the best part about this is? He is playing. Normally the high-level kids. I know some of those that are in the draft like the Sarrs, Rob Dillingham, they are not in Chicago playing. So the fact that he is not scared to go against the competition that’s there.” Arenas explained, adding, “It shows you that he is calling the shots because if this was LeBron, he would be like ‘Just workout by yourself. Let’s work out by yourself we are going to protect your image a little bit’. He’s like no, let me go out there and show I can play with these guys,”.

The former Washington guard saw the hunger within Bronny James to make his worth known around the league. Rather than using his dad’s influence, he chooses to battle on fair terms. And despite the risk it carries, Bronny did not waver; nothing could push him off his journey. When speaking to the media, James clarified that his only goal is to make it to the NBA.

Bronny James expressed how he doesn’t see LeBron as a tool to get into the league. He is doing all the pre-work needed to showcase his complete arsenal. Moreover, his performances spoke volumes, going beyond his single-season college stats. As of now, his draft stock might have hiked exponentially.

Do you think Bronny James’ current status is enough to get him a spot on a roster? Let us know your opinions in the comments below.