What Should Be Bronny James’ Role for USC’s Sinking Ship?

The University of Southern California Trojans have a 5-5 record and have lost their 2 consecutive games against the Long Beach State and the Auburn Tigers. While against the Long Beach they fell short by a margin of 84-79, they couldn’t do much to improve against the Auburn Tigers as they were decimated by a 91-75 margin.

Fans had expected the USC to be in the top 20 in AP Polls but unfortunately, at present they are nowhere to be found near the Top 25 list. And the critics are citing their freshman Bronny James as the problem since he doesn’t look to fit anywhere in the team.

The Issues with Bronny James

The USC’s relief rested in the much-anticipated debut of the freshman Bronny James. But going by the performance Bronny hasn’t helped the team much. During his first game against the Long Beach State, Bronny basketed a meager 4 points with three rebounds and 2 assists. The numbers did not create a positive impact on his part.

The 19-year-old had a horrendous shooting tally in the very limited chances he got. Bronny shot a lackluster 33.33% field goal percentage and an equal three-pointer percentage. On top of that, he had only 50% free throw percentage. Thus instead of lifting the team, Bronny sinked in with his 16-minute performance.

The next game also saw Bronny not doing much for his team. He played for only 14 minutes and could pot a paltry 5 points. This time his overall contribution was lesser since he nabbed just 2 rebounds. What the USC had anticipated as the end to their woes, rather inflicted much wound on them.

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Bronny scored a singular basket out of the four field goals he got and three out of four free throws. Additionally, he couldn’t drop any of the three-pointers in the 2 chances he got. But the problem doesn’t lie with Bronny.

What is the Root Cause?

Bronny is under tremendous pressure since all the spotlights are on him considering he is the NBA legend LeBron James’ son. This has affected him and his team negatively. Because the team is grabbing all the eyeballs. Their normal game of treating their guards Boogie Ellis and Isaiah Collier as the prime team members doesn’t work well since the media is inclined towards covering Bronny on the court which brings its own expectations that ultimately weigh the team down.

Although, Bronny can be the main player. He has a high basketball IQ. Much of his game insights can be attributed to his father The King James. Bronny thus understands the game well, reads it impeccably, and knows the nitty-gritty of rotation. Bronny though has received a lot of limelight but that doesn’t make him selfish. Instead, he was always eager to play the connector, pass the ball and propel his team to new heights. But he is not getting the desirable position with the USC.

Another issue with Bronny is that he has not got much time on the court and he is being pushed into the process. He has just recovered from a cardiac arrest and he is being put in the game without proper planning regarding his position and playing style.

Though, he wasn’t the most effective outside shooter, Bronny worked really hard on it. His performances in the current NCAA season doesn’t justify his skills. That can also be attributed to the fact that he hasn’t got much shooting chances. During high school, he had become a player who couldn’t be left open for a long time lest he would find an open space and shoot. For his unselfish game, he has also drawn comparisons to LeBron James. 

What should be Bronny’s role?

Bronny is at his best when he is the third or fourth option on the floor. Which means that going by his connector game he isn’t the alpha and should a play a supporting role if the USC are to make anything of this season. And it’s not about his talent but the place where his balling personality would find the most comfort.

As for talent, the Ohio-born is the most talented player on the floor at times. He is one of the most prominent athletes in the college basketball. He has it in his genes to run, roll, and make a move. Going by his athleticism, he is above average even when compared to NBA standards. It is just that he is more suited to playing the second fiddle or a connector’s role. 

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As the season progresses, he will make the best of the current and show his skills. He will use his athleticism and the team needs to work on giving a space to Bronny where he can display the best part of his game. He needs to stretch out a bit more and reach the maximum potential of his arm space. This would give the impetus to his team to be in a better position both defensively and offensively. Going forward he will definitely be a big part of the Trojans’ plans. All Bronny needs is some time and a space in the team where he is most suited.