USA Today via Reuters
Jul 6, 2024; San Francisco, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James Jr. (9) reacts from the bench after a play against the Sacramento Kings during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Jul 6, 2024; San Francisco, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James Jr. (9) reacts from the bench after a play against the Sacramento Kings during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Bronny James has been catching mad heat after his summer league run. The former Trojan put up over 5 points and 3 boards in five games—not exactly mind-blowing stats. But is it that bad? Before we get all worked up, remember—he was the 55th pick in the 2024 draft. So, is it fair that Bronny’s getting all this criticism?
On the flip side, this might be the spark that lights Bronny’s fire, pushing him to level up and be a stronger, better player. At least, that’s what Youtuber CashNasty believes. “He needs it because he didn’t have a hard background growing up. So this right here might wake the beast in him, bro,” CashNasty said on the ‘Join The Lobby’ show, keeping it real about all the criticism.
What CashNasty’s saying is that greatness often comes from grinding through tough times. No one makes it to the top without putting in the work. Just look at his dad, LeBron—who had a rough start with his father absent and his mom struggling to find steady work. Life was brutal without a father figure, but LeBron didn’t let that hold him back. He worked relentlessly and now, he’s not just a legend, he’s still dominating the game. Maybe all those struggles were the fuel that fired his drive.
But Bronny didn’t face the same struggles growing up, so maybe all this slander could work in his favor, giving him the push he needs. He’s got that competitive edge, and let’s be real, he’s LeBron James’ kid. “He’s a competitive person, bro. You know, this probably because, you know, let’s be real, bro. He’s hella athletic because you know, he’s the sperm of LeBron, man. You know?” CashNasty added.
“Also, I think it’s good for him. I think he needs more, you know. I’m a person like that, bro. I feel like people need pressure. You need to overcome that. Once you overcome that, bro, like, you’re gonna develop to a better person. 100%. You you wouldn’t even gonna be. I love that. That is awesome.” he said, explaining why he thinks Bronny needs that extra push. Sometimes, it’s the weight of that pressure that makes you level up and drive harder. For Bronny, this could be just what he needs to shine.
Looks Like Bronny James Is Putting in the Work
Recently, a video of Bronny James grinding it out with players like Darius Garland and Talen Horton Tucker emerged. His hard work is paying off. People were seriously impressed by his tough jumpers and smooth fadeaways. It’s amazing to witness how far he’s come and how he’s starting to find the shooting rhythm that made him a top high school recruit.
The way he’s progressing with the South Bay Lakers and the fact that he’s just 19, Bronny has immense growth potential. Laker’s summer league coach Dane Johnson also has a lot of faith in Bronny. “He picks up stuff really well. We throw stuff at him — plays, coverages, defensively. He kind of picks it up really quick, so I think he could potentially be (a point guard),” Johnson said.
Keeping all the glitz and glam of his NBA debut aside—where LeBron and Bronny will make history as the first father-son duo to hit the court in a regular season game—one thing’s for sure. You can’t deny Bronny’s hustle. He’s shown time and again that he’s all in on improving, and you can see his natural game sense, especially in training camp.
Amidst all this, how will Bronny James’ first NBA season unfold? What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
Debate
Does Bronny James really need more criticism to succeed, or is this just unnecessary pressure?