Bronny James learns the NBA pain the hard way but refuses to flinch after rough preseason start for the Los Angeles Lakers

Bronny James could be facing one of the most challenging rookie seasons we've seen in quite some time. As LeBron's son, he naturally attracts a lot of attention, but that attention can be overwhelming. His initial performances in the NBA haven't exactly wowed anyone, and even the preseason games are revealing just how tough the journey is. Yet, there's something admirable about how he's managing it, growing steadily, adapting gradually, and showing no signs of giving up.

Bronny James faces tough rookie season with Los Angeles Lakers

Bronny James had a rough start to his rookie year with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024-25. After being drafted 55th overall, his college career at USC was cut short by a cardiac arrest, limiting him to just 25 games.

With high expectations on his shoulders, he played 27 games in the NBA, mostly with limited minutes, averaging 2.3 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game, while shooting 31.3% from the field in 6.7 minutes. He made history by playing alongside his dad in one game, but he also spent some time in the G League to work on his game due to inconsistent performances.

Bronny James finds rhythm in G League but faces shooting woes in NBA preseason

During the 2024-25 season, Bronny, who was assigned to the South Bay Lakers, made noticeable strides in 11 games. He put up an average of 21.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, starting every match. His shooting percentage improved to 44.3% from the field and 38.0% from beyond the arc, along with 1.9 steals per game. This experience helped boost his confidence after facing challenges as a rookie, setting him up for a return to the NBA.

The reason for Bronny's preseason opportunity is linked to the Los Angeles Lakers' roster situation. With both LeBron James and Luka Doncic unavailable, he received more playing time, although his shooting was off. He only managed one field goal, which was a late three-pointer. The team as a whole shot 31.1% from the field.

Bronny James shows improved comfort handling the ball and running schemes

Post-game, Bronny James told reporters he felt positive about his shots. "I felt like they were pretty good shots," he said. "Not rushed, not forcing anything. I didn't have my legs under me as much as I wanted to, so a lot of them were short, but most of them were in a line." He added, "Definitely felt like I was more comfortable, especially with the ball in my hands, and with the defensive and offensive schemes. But I'm just trying to feel it out. Feeling my way still and just continuing to grow."


Bronny James acknowledged limited regular-season chances: "I'm just trying to feel it out, trying to get some reps in with the guys. There's probably not going to be as many opportunities during the season, so I'm just coming out and defending hard, playing my game, doing the non-negotiables."


Coach JJ Redick praised him to reporters: "He is so much more comfortable and confident as a player. Skill-wise, read-wise, all of those things have improved... He's a totally different player than he was a year ago. I thought the stuff that he did down in the G League last year was huge for him." At 20, Bronny James remains focused on effort amid pressure.

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