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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The basketball world has been buzzing with chatter ever since LeBron James hit the NBA court with his eldest son, Bronny James, making history as the first father-son duo in the league. But just as that dream was making waves, another James is stepping into the limelight.

Bryce James, the youngest son of King James, has officially committed to playing college basketball. While both brothers share the dream of basketball glory and are following the trail blazed by their legendary father, there’s an ever-lingering question in the minds of fans: which brother is better equipped to carry forward LeBron’s legacy? To answer that, let’s see what the high school numbers have to say.

Bronny James vs. Bryce James: Breaking down high school stats

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LeBron Raymone “Bronny” James Jr. entered the spotlight the moment he donned his Sierra Canyon jersey. He made an immediate impression, scoring 10 points in his debut against Montgomery High School. By his freshman year, he was already making headlines, earning the Most Valuable Player award in a game against St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, his dad’s alma mater.

Though he averaged a modest 4.1 points per game as a freshman, the baller’s growth was evident year after year. By his junior year, he dropped a game-high 19 points in a revenge win against St. Vincent-St. Mary. As a senior, he truly came into his own, averaging 14.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, leading Sierra Canyon to a 23-11 record. 

Not to forget, his second-place finish in the McDonald’s All-American Game dunk contest. Post high school, the 6’2 guard committed to the University of Southern California Trojans, but his journey hit a bump when he suffered cardiac arrest during a team workout.

It was a tough setback, but Bronny bounced back, played his lone college season, and went on to be drafted by none other than the Los Angeles Lakers, where he joined his father. And the dream of the father-son duo finally came true. LeBron was then 39, and Bronny, 20. 

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Bronny or Bryce: Who's more likely to surpass LeBron's legendary status in the basketball world?

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Bryce Maximus James, on the other hand, has had a more measured ascent. Standing tall at 6’6″, he has shown flashes of brilliance, even as a 3-star recruit. Starting his journey at Sierra Canyon, Bryce shared the court with his older brother but eventually transferred to Notre Dame/Sherman Oaks before returning to his original stomping grounds.

The rushing star’s high school stats may not be as flashy as Bronny’s yet, but they’re full of promise. In 14 games with the Strive For Greatness grassroots program, he averaged 6.9 points and 2.2 rebounds, shooting a respectable 36.8% from beyond the arc. 

His standout moment was a 21-point, six-rebound game against NightRydas Elite, where he drained five three-pointers. Moreover, his physicality compliments his playstyle. He’s got a sweet shooting touch and a knack for defensive plays. Case in point, his stellar six-point, three-assist, and two-steal game against Moorpark High. 

Now, as he moves to his collegiate career, Bryce will shine in a new arena.

But who’s got the edge?

Comparing the two brothers isn’t easy. They’re at different stages of development and bring unique strengths to the game. Bronny’s high school stats are more polished. His ability to shine under pressure tied to his name is the highlight. 

Meanwhile, Bryce has raw potential that suggests he could surpass expectations as he develops. With his height advantage and defensive instincts, he could become a force to be reckoned with. While Bronny’s stats edge out Bryce’s for now, the younger James brother is just beginning. And he has even made a huge college decision.

Bryce James takes the next big step, commits to Arizona

For months, the rumor mill was spinning with speculation about where he’d land. Offers from Ohio State and Duquesne stirred up chatter, with many wondering if sentimental ties to his dad’s history would sway him. 

But in the end, Bryce chose Arizona, announcing his commitment on Instagram with the caption, “100% committed.” This decision adds Bryce to an already promising 2025 recruiting class for the Wildcats, alongside five-star small forward Dwayne Aristode. And the program isn’t stopping there.

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The team is gunning for more elite talent, including top-ranked prospects Koa Peat, Brayden Burries, and Alijah Arenas. With Bryce in the mix, Arizona is destined to build a powerhouse team. Meanwhile, Bronny’s subtle Instagram repost of Bryce’s announcement said it all. The bond between these brothers runs deep. 

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LeBron James, who often talks about the importance of family, couldn’t hold back his excitement. On Instagram, he dropped a heartfelt message writing, “🐻 DOWN⬇️!!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS MAXIMUS!! SO PROUD OF YOU!!! 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🤎🤎🤎🥺🥺🥺🤴🏾 #JamesGang👑” . 

Watching his sons step into their own is a full circle moment for King James’ fans who have been there since day one. So, whether it’s Bronny establishing himself in the NBA or Bryce finding his groove in LA, one thing is certain—the James name will continue to be at the forefront. 

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