The scrutiny and attention that Bronny James of the Los Angeles Lakers has faced is unlike anything that others have experienced in their NBA careers.
He hasn’t spent much time on the court during Lakers games this season, but every single second has been closely monitored by fans, analysts, and even people with just a passing interest in basketball.
Austin Rivers spoke about the expectations for James and what might come next for him.
Unlike some people, Rivers believes that James can really play basketball and might develop into a star.
“His game will continue to evolve. It’s not like the kid can’t play ball. Just a matter of him finding his rhythm,” River said, per Overtime.
“His game will continue to evolve. It’s not like the kid can’t play ball. Just a matter of him finding his rhythm.”
Austin Rivers on Bronny in the league 🫡 pic.twitter.com/flnbwCB7Og
— Overtime (@overtime) February 20, 2025
Rivers admitted that James was drafted by the Lakers because of his father, but he also said the team probably sees some real talent in him.
James is a very young man, and there is still plenty of time for him to be crafted into a star, even if his rookie year hasn’t been inspiring yet.
Usually, players who are picked at 55 in the draft aren’t subjected to so much attention, but James isn’t a regular 55th pick.
Rivers said that he hopes James moves to another team at some point so he can focus strictly on playing basketball.
He shouldn’t be bogged down by what others think of him or his relation to his father.
James has shown moments of brilliance in the G-League, but his time with the Lakers has been lackluster at best.
But he’s young, he has talent, and the Lakers believe in him, so people shouldn’t give up on the young star just yet.
NEXT: JJ Redick Doesn’t Hold Back His Thoughts About LeBron James
