Bronny James stats tonight: LeBron James' son explodes for career-night in road debut for South Bay Lakers (Dec. 12)
LeBron James' son, Bronny James, made his NBA G League road debut on Thursday against the Phoenix Suns' affiliate, Vally Suns. Bronny initially planned to only play home games for the South Bay Lakers, but the development plans for the 20-year-old have changed.
It seems to be working in his favor. After dropping a career-high 16 points in his last G League game against the San Diego Clippers on Dec. 6, he got off to a hot start against the Suns and recorded a career-high effort.
Bronny James dropped 30 points against the Valley Suns, shooting 13-of-22, including 3-of-9 from 3-point range and 1-of-2 from the free-throw line. He added three rebounds, two assists, one steal, one block and two turnovers with a box +/- of +1.
However, the South Bay Lakers lost the contest 106-100 despite leading by 14 points in the first half.
Bronny James looks extremely comfortable in 30-point career-night for South Bay Lakers
Bronny James made his first 3s of the season after a cold start from beyond the arc. The Lakers' second-round pick racked up eight points in the first two minutes, making two 3s and a layup. Bronny exited the game a minute after his scoring burst.
Bronny added another five points to his tally in the second quarter en route to his most efficient performance of the season. He finished the first half with a team-high 13 points, shooting 5-of-7, including 3-of-3 from deep. Bronny had one assist, one steal and two turnovers as he finished the first two quarters with a box +/- of +9 in a 56-48 lead for South Bay.
The second half was even better for him as he scored 17 of his 30 points in that span. However, he missed the crucial shot to tie the game 102-102 with 22 seconds left.
Nevertheless, Bronny James returning to form was the highlight of the night. He was the best player on the floor with his two-way play. After a turbulent start to his professional career, a performance like this is just what he may have required to get back on track and play to the best of his abilities.