“I Don’t Want [Bronny] to Play With LeBron [James]”: Charles Barkley Gives Wild Advice to USC Star After Draft Declaration

LeBron James has often expressed his desire to play with his son Bronny in the NBA before he quits the game once and for all. To everyone’s surprise, James’ 19-year-old son declared for the 2024 draft a few hours ago and it has left many in denial. Philadelphia 76ers legend Charles Barkley is one of them, who has shown his disapproval of this sudden decision from the USC Trojans star. 

Charles Barkley shared during his appearance on CNN broadcast, “I don’t want him(LeBron James) to play with his son. I want his son to develop his own name. If he goes to LeBron’s team, I think it would put too much of a spotlight on him because LeBron’s a brighter star of this generation…I think the kid needs to go away by himself, so he can grow as a player, so he can grow as a person…You don’t want your kid on that type of pressure…I don’t want him to play with LeBron.”

USC Trojans guard Bronny announced on his Instagram yesterday, “I’ve made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility, and will also be entering the NCAA transfer portal.” So if things don’t work out for the young James on Draft night, he will move back to college, albeit in a different program.

While Barkley believes Bronny is making the wrong move, a few other notable basketball stars believe he should go pro. 

Former NBA champions side with Bronny James’ sudden decision

Kendrick Perkins, who hosts First Take on ESPN, shared, “It’s the right move. I mean, when you look at Bronny. I think he would be a hell of a pro. He will have a great career. He has been around pros all his life… I actually love this from Bronny James.” Big Perk’s opinion was shared by Jeff Teague as well.

Former Milwaukee Bucks guard Jeff Teague said, “Go hoop. I just don’t think he is a college basketball player. He is a pro. His skill set is not for college. He is not a bucket-getter. What he do well is like, ‘I can pass, I can play good defense…I am a really complimentary player’…NBA people know that’s a good game.” 

Read more: Ex-Miami Heat Star Advices Bronny James Against LeBron James’ Dream After 19YO’s Instagram Bomb

Teague believes Bronny can be a good role player, at least during his initial years in the NBA. However, Bronny will have to face a lot of pressure and criticism if he wants to step into dad’s shoes. Let’s see how it goes. 

Read more: Bronny James Is Better Suited for NBA Due to His 1 Big Inheritance, Claims Skip Bayless