“Maybe I don’t deserve this.” LeBron’s son to be introduced as a Lakers player
Nikita Biryukov July 3, 2024, 14:00 Moscow time Audio version: Your browser does not support the audio element.
Bronny James gave his first NBA press conference.
“Rob and I [Пелинкой] Bronny wasn’t given anything. “Bronny deserves it… He earned the right to be in the NBA through hard work,” said JJ Redick at the Los Angeles Lakers press conference to officially introduce Bronny James, the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
In addition to Bronny, the Lakers also presented Dalton Knecht, whom they selected with the 17th pick. But many were interested, of course, in the son of the king. According to well-known insider Shams Charania, Bronny intends to sign a guaranteed multi-year initial contract with the Los Angeles Club. So, what did the 19-year-old point guard say at his first press conference as an NBA player?
The downside of Bronny joining the NBA:
LeBron degrades basketball. Why did James bring his son to the Lakers?
“I feel like I could improve my game more. I was given the opportunity to show what I could really do because I didn’t get a lot of opportunities at USC. I’m looking forward to what’s next,” Bronny said of his NCAA play. James Jr. didn’t really get much time in college, as he missed prep and the first part of the junior season due to cardiac arrest. As a result, after extensive exams, rest, and rehabilitation, Bronny began playing for Southern California, where he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19.3 minutes during the season.
“My goal is to prove myself, I strive to push myself and improve every day. Playing with my father is certainly an interesting prospect, but it was never a priority for me,” Bronny continued. What else can I say to LeBron’s son? That he only got the job because of his father? Hardly anyone will be flattered by the fact that you are in the league only because of someone and not because of your abilities.
LeBron James, Bronny James, Savannah James
Photo: x.com/Lakers
Never before have father and son played in the NBA at the same time, let alone on the same team. Bronny was asked about the pressure he faces heading into the upcoming game with his father. “Of course there is a lot of pressure. I saw what was written on social media and on the internet, discussions that maybe I didn’t deserve this opportunity. But I’ve had to deal with things like this all my life. So nothing new for me, although now in enhanced mode of course. But I can handle it.”
Bronny also touched on his Lakers number. LeBron’s son will be playing with a “nine” on his back in honor of the late rapper Juice WRLD, who referenced the number in his songs. Bronny has a vertical tattoo of three 9s behind his left ear. “Juice just helped me stay calm in some situations that I went through. So paying tribute to him, especially since he passed away, is very important to me.”
Bronny will have to prove himself with actions, not words. The NCAA was, to put it mildly, so-so. At school he was truly spectacular and was one of the brightest stars, but the NBA is a completely different level. Being among the best is a privilege that few deserve.
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