Ex-Superbowl Champ Helps Bronny James Step Away From Dad LeBron’s Shadows as 19YO Star Takes Over ESPY Awards

Almost everyone has an opinion about Bronny James. Ever since LeBron introduced him to the NBA world, the young kid has always been under the scanner. Especially in the last few months, he was subject to tons of criticism. Apart from that, he was not seen as an individual, he was always associated with his father, the NBA legend. However, in the lineup of a few good souls, the former NFL Champion Drew Brees dropped some wisdom for the man of the hour at the annual ESPY Awards.

Speaking on the red carpet, Cam Newton, NFL’s 2011 MVP, asked Drew Brees to give some words of advice for Bronny. He said, “Well, Bronny James needs to be Bronny James and not his father. He’s his own man and while he’s taken everything that he’s been taught and certainly the kind of the advice and guidance of his dad. At the end of the day, I think he has to be able just to kind of create his own path and I hope that others give him that opportunity as well,” he told ESPN.

Brees’ words gave nothing but a sound reminder that it was Bronny’s battle and not his father’s. Jaylen Brown also made a statement about the rising star. The interviewer caught hold of the reigning MVP on the red carpet and asked if he would go easy on James Jr. on the court. Brown, in response, said, “I mean like when whoever’s in front of you. It’s your job to do what you do.” JB made it clear to Bronny that even though he will still have his dad by his side, the 19-year-old will need to guard the MVP, or whoever the opponent is, himself.

Will Bronny James be able to shrug off every critic out there?

LeBron James’ son has already opened his account in the professional world. The rising star made his Summer League debut for the LA Lakers in San Francisco. The media watched each and every single move of the rising star on the court. He didn’t make much of a dent on the offensive end, scoring 7 points with 7 rebounds and 5 assists in two games. However, he’s impressed everyone at the defensive end, recording 3 blocks and 3 assists, playing at an average of 25.7 minutes per game.

Nevertheless, it’s unfair to determine a player’s talent with their Summer League performance. Notably, the Rookie of the Year Award winner, Victor Wembanyama dropped 9 points in his Summer League debut with a poor 2-13 FG. However, he then ended up averaging 21.4 points with 10.6 rebounds per game in the last NBA season.

Moreover, speaking of the immense pressure, the youngster dropped a positive statement. At the Lakers introductory press meet, he candidly said, “It’s for sure the amplified amount of pressure. I’ve already seen it. Media and stuff on the internet and stuff talking about I might not deserve an opportunity, but you know, I’ve been dealing with stuff like this for my whole life. So, it’s nothing different. It’s more amplified for sure, but I get through it.”

Going by his latest statement, the rising star definitely looks determined to make a mark for himself. Only time will tell.

Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.