Bronny James might have to wait a little while to hear his name called during the 2024 NBA Draft.
The former Trojans guard garnered endless attention during his brief collegiate career — a logical consequence given who his father is. He endured a challenging maiden season in Pasadena, suffering cardiac arrest after collapsing during an offseason workout last July.
As a result, James wasn’t cleared to return to the floor until December, at which point Andy Enfield’s side was already floundering. The McDonald’s All-American fell way short of preseason expectations, averaging just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists on .369/.267/.676 shooting splits.
MORE: Projecting where will Bronny James will be picked on Day 2
Despite the lack of production at the college level, there were signs of life in his game. He’s shown flashes of being a dogged defender, offering good wingspan, athleticism and an innate ability to navigate through screens — all skills that could translate to the next level. His jump shot mechanics are fairly solid, even if it wasn’t reflected in his shooting rates in college.
Perhaps more valuably, James knows what his role will be in the NBA— not a star but a dependable role player. Back in May, James listed his NBA comparisons as Davion Mitchell, Derrick White and Jrue Holiday. Perhaps it’s a sign of what he expects to offer as a pro.
Here’s what you need to know about James’ future prospects following the conclusion of the first round of the NBA Draft.
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Where did Bronny James get drafted?
James hasn’t yet found an NBA home. But there are plenty of rumored parties interested in acquiring James’ services in the second round of this year’s draft.
The Lakers have consistently been linked with James since his departure from USC, with many believing his arrival could ensure LeBron James would stick in Tinseltown for the final few years of his career.
Other interested parties include the Jazz, Cavaliers and Suns, who acquired the No. 56 pick in this year’s draft, one spot after Los Angeles’ second-rounder.
TSN’s Kyle Irving has James going to the Lakers with the No. 55 pick in his latest mock draft.
Here’s what Irving wrote about the pick:
All eyes will be on James on the second day of the NBA Draft. LeBron’s son reportedly has interest from a variety of teams in the second round but it seems most likely that others will be told to stand down so the Lakers can select him with this pick.
The second round will take place on Thursday, June 27.