LeBron James shares 11-year-old Bronny James' AAU highlights after underwhelming Lakers debut at Summer League
LeBron James' son Bronny James had an underwhelming LA Lakers' debut in the California Classic Summer League on Friday. Bronny returned with only four points on 2 of 9 shooting, including three missed 3s and two bricked free throws in the 108-94 loss to the Sacramento Kings' Summer League 'B' team.
He showed flashes of his potential at the highest level but wasn't entirely convincing. Nevertheless, it was only his first outing, so there's a lot he can learn from that game. His dad doesn't seem fazed by it, either. After Bronny's debut outing ended, LeBron posted a video of his son's AAU highlights.
Bronny was 11 years old at the time. He was in middle school playing with the North Coast Blue Chips. The highlights showed some of Bronny's best baskets, where he seemed comfortable scoring from anywhere on the floor. He also showed flashy handles and remarkable 3-point shooting.
It's a good reminder for Bronny's critics that he's uber-talented and could make a name for himself in the NBA with the right developmental path. The Lakers seem to be giving him the necessary opportunity to succeed, offering him a guaranteed four-year deal and making him a crucial part of their Summer League roster.
Bronny James bagged a start in his first game for the Lakers. He played more as a two-guard, playing off the primary ball-handler.
LeBron James doesn't pay heed to Bronny James' Summer League performance outcome
LeBron James is focused on team and son Bronny James' success in the upcoming season. He's seemingly maximizing the chance to mentor his son and take him under his wing in the pros. James showed that while talking about how and if Bronny's Summer League performance will be relevant.
“It doesn’t matter if he plays well and it doesn’t matter if he doesn’t play well," James told reporters on Saturday.
"You can’t take anything stat-wise from the California Classic and Summer League and bring it once the season starts. The only thing that matters is him getting better and stacking days."
Bronny James may have entered the league prematurely. He only played 25 games in his debut college season, averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists, shooting a measly 36.6%, including 26.7%.
It was widely believed he should've continued his college career for another year. However, Bronny bet on himself and entered the NBA Draft. It seems to have worked out so far with LA drafting him.
However, his task is cut out now to deliver on this chance and prove he belongs as a pro.