For Bronny James, the journey to the NBA has been anything but ordinary. As the son of basketball icon LeBron James, expectations have followed him like a shadow.
During a media conversation this summer, the 20-year-old Lakers guard pointed to one game that helped him step out from under that shadow and into his own light: a March 2025 matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.
“I’d say the Milwaukee game is one,” Bronny said, reflecting on his rookie season. “But just overall, having performances that I’d say I was proud of. Every one of those meant so much for me, that I can prove to some of the people, even if they don’t want to switch sides, but prove to some of those people that I belong here and I can play. I just love that feeling, so it was great”.
In that game, Bronny delivered a career-high 17 points, five assists, and three rebounds in 30 minutes of action. He shot an efficient 7-of-10 from the field and 2-of-4 from beyond the arc. Though the Lakers fell 118–89, Bronny’s performance stood out as a beacon of promise in a challenging season.
The significance of that night went beyond the stat sheet. It was a moment of validation for a player who had battled through a cardiac arrest just two years prior, faced skepticism about his draft selection, and endured the pressure of being compared to his legendary father.
“I’ve known I can do that,” Bronny added. “Just being able to go out there and actually do it makes me feel great about myself and where I’m going as a player”.
Bronny’s rookie campaign was modest by the numbers, averaging 2.3 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game, but the flashes of brilliance, especially against Milwaukee, have kept the Lakers invested in his development. Head coach JJ Redick has emphasized the importance of elite conditioning and consistency, believing Bronny has the tools to become a strong two-way contributor.
As he enters his sophomore season, Bronny is expected to take on a larger role off the bench. His summer workouts and improved confidence have already turned heads in the Lakers organization.
