NBA Champs Root for Bronny James Despite Increasing Fan Backlash Ahead of Draft Night

Bronny James recently got clearance for the NBA draft combine, and he is already proving the judgment to be right. It is worth mentioning that the NBA combine is in a way a pre-draft camp that brings together NBA prospects for multiple shooting and agility drills. And as the highlights of the shooting drill shared by the House of Highlights, Bronny James did exceptionally well.

The thumbnail of the post spotlighted that Bronny could not seem to miss the shooting drill in the camp. “Bronny made 12 THREES IN A ROW in NBA Combine drill,” read the caption to the post. And some renowned former NBA stars extended their support to Bronny James for his shooting proficiency. “Yes sir,” commented former Golden State Warriors star Matt Barnes. Meanwhile, former Indiana Pacers star Stephen Jackson also took to the comments section to appreciate the 19-year-old’s 3-point shooting with a “Good sh*t,” comment.

It is worth mentioning that Bronny James has frequently made it to the media headlines ever since he announced his decision to enter the NBA draft. However, he also reserved his option of entering the transfer portal. But a certain section of the basketball community believes it is too soon for him to enter the draft. And stemming from this have been various mixed opinions, including some severe criticism against the 19-year-old.

How have the fans reacted to Bronny James’ recent shooting drill at NBA combine?

The criticism around the former USC Trojans star’s decision primarily stems from his shorter duration at college level. Notably, Bronny’s season was cut short after suffering a cardiac arrest in July. And although he made a comeback after 5 months, his performance remained below average. He averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists through the 25 games he played. Therefore, some in the NBA community believe he rushed with his NBA draft decision. However, Bronny’s recent shooting drill has provided assurance to some fans that he may just be ready for this move.

One of the Insta users highlighted the positives that Bronny James possesses as a player. “40.5 inch vert, sharpshooter, top defender in the draft class….. what y’all got to say now?” he commented. 

Meanwhile, @eightball_sg was impressed by this fact alone that despite suffering a cardiac arrest, the former Trojans star is still moving ahead. “Ni**a had a cardiac arrest n still hoopin good asl yall just hatin at this point,” he commented. 

“Not one of you with a negative comment can make the YMCA team the misery is ridiculous,” stated another user, questioning the credibility of those who were criticizing.

However, there were bound to be some harsh critics and trolls on a social media platform like Instagram. So there was a certain level of lash-back as well against the 19-year-old.

One of the IG users questioned the media coverage itself that Bronny is getting. “So the whole combine just about Bronny?” he commented on the post. 

“Yeah against no defense,” nitpicked another user finding defense in a shooting drill. Meanwhile, Oliver Ollano went ahead a step further and targeted LeBron James with a sarcastic comment. “Everyone in the NBA can shoot…….but can he flop? can he make excuses?… can blame his teammates? Only time will tell if he can follow in Daddy’s footsteps,” he commented. Now it is to be seen if Bronny James gets to live up to his decision of entering the NBA draft this season. And subsequently, silence all the trolls and critics that have bashed his decision so far.