Bronny James cleared another obstacle on Friday during his second consecutive full-contact workout before making his college debut against Long Beach State on Sunday. After falling into cardiac arrest in July, the freshman at USC will make his first match appearance at the Galen Center amid hype and hoopla.
Many view Bronny’s career trajectory with caution since, despite his talent and success, the attention he has gotten as a result of his father’s heritage has led to unrealistic expectations. Some NBA pundits even call for a more honest appraisal of Bronny’s potential and competence as he’s finally making a court comeback.
Coach Andy Enfield anticipates Bronny’s return
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Following practice on Friday, USC coach Andy Enfield stated, “Everybody is excited for the progress. This isn’t my last choice. Bronny and the physicians will make the ultimate choice. We’re heading that way, though.” Doctors, he said, gave James the all-clear last week to resume playing basketball.
Bronny, 19, experienced a cardiac arrest in late July and spent three days in the ICU. To cure a congenital cardiac abnormality, he had surgery. When James Jr. returns, according to Enfield, he will play with a minute limit and come off the bench. “I thought he looked better today than he did yesterday,” Enfield said. “His timing was impeccable. Even if he hasn’t played in six or seven months, he still has a ways to go, despite his excellent first few days.”
Though Bronny James will be restricted in minutes and overshadowed by players such as Boogie Ellis and Kobe Johnson, his team is excited about the defense he is about to bring in and the basketball IQ he inherited from his father.
What’s Bronny James likely to bring to court?
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Before his medical issue, James, who ESPN ranked 20th in the 2023 recruiting class, had hoped to play in the NBA with his father. He was projected as a first-round pick on mock draft boards.
As the freshman returns to basketball, he and his family are more worried about his health. Bronny will be allowed to take a few minutes off the bench. However, his defense, scoring, and potential passing ability are expected to light a fire under him.
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Much will depend on Bronny’s health and, more significantly, how fast he adjusts to the collegiate game.