Bronny James is a step closer to his NBA dream, but it’s still unclear where he will end up. Most NBA scouts do not consider him a first-round talent, while others think he’s not ready to take the next step. Wherever he ends up, agent Rich Paul says James won’t sign a two-way contract.
Paul clarifies this stance when speaking with Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes.
BR: Is it true that you wouldn’t sign Bronny to a two-way contract?
RP: Yes, that’s absolutely true. Teams know that. I’m not doing that.
James’ lone season at USC is a forgettable one. He averaged just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists as the team finished 15-18 overall. Nevertheless, LeBron James’ eldest son redeemed himself in the NBA Draft Combine. He recorded a 40.5-inch vertical and shot 19-for-25 in a three-point shooting drill.
According to The Athletic, several teams are looking closely at Bronny ahead of the NBA Draft on June 26. The Los Angeles Lakers pick at 17 and 55 and could snag him with either, although the second round is more likely. Moreover, the Phoenix Suns select at No. 22 and could possibly use that on James.
Critics often point out James’ less-than-stellar production with the Trojans as a point of contention. However, it’s also worth noting that the 19-year-old suffered cardiac arrest last year and only got back on the court in January 2024. Therefore, he missed a lot of time that he could’ve used to work on his game.
Paul also mentioned this fact in the Bleacher Report interview:
Listen, when you have a cardiac arrest and come back and play a sport, it is a blessing. That’s No. 1. Again, we’re not looking for people to sympathize because of that, but facts are facts. No. 2., I’ve always thought and I continue to think Bronny is going to be a good pro, and he’s going to be a good pro because he’s extremely talented and smart.
Rich Paul on Bronny James
The Klutch Sports CEO compared Bronny to Eric Bledsoe as a first-round success story. He also brought up Naz Reid and Fred VanVleet as undrafted talents who became important team pieces.
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