LeBron James’ presence on the Los Angeles Lakers definitely influenced the team’s choice to select Bronny James. But Bronny still appears to be in denial about it.
On Tuesday, the Lakers held an introductory news conference for newcomers Bronny James and Dalton Knecht.
The younger James was asked about his decision to leave USC early following a dismal debut season. The reporter also asked Bronny how much LeBron’s status as an active player influenced his choice to declare for the 2024 NBA Draft.
Bronny James was asked if LeBron still being an active player had anything to do with him entering the 2024 draft:
"I never really had a thought of me going to play with my dad" pic.twitter.com/HvxD53VmqT
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) July 2, 2024
The 55th overall pick attempted to downplay the father-son relationship by making a questionable claim.
“I always try to set that story aside,” adds Bronny. “I’m trying to promote myself. I have never considered going to play with my father. It is always there. But it was not a primary focus of mine.
Several fans on X questioned Bronny’s claim that he had never contemplated playing with LeBron. After all, LeBron has been very upfront about the prospect of teaming up with his eldest child in the NBA.
Bronny James was asked if LeBron still being an active player had anything to do with him entering the 2024 draft:
"I never really had a thought of me going to play with my dad" pic.twitter.com/HvxD53VmqT
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) July 2, 2024
To be fair to Bronny, he probably couldn’t have provided an answer that would have satisfied everyone. The 19-year-old also appeared anxious in front of a large group of media members.
Bronny James was asked if LeBron still being an active player had anything to do with him entering the 2024 draft:
"I never really had a thought of me going to play with my dad" pic.twitter.com/HvxD53VmqT
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) July 2, 2024
Given his status as LeBron’s child, Bronny’s rookie season will be one of the most highly scrutinized in recent years. As the season goes, more difficult questions are likely to arise.
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