NBA News: LeBron James Sends Encouraging Message to Bronny After First Games with Lakers

NBA

After Bronny James’ first games with the Los Angeles Lakers in Summer League, his father LeBron sent him an encouraging message for the future.

By means of Gianni Taina

Jul 21, 2024 4:55pm EDT

**© Christopher Pike/Getty Images**LeBron James #6 of the United States walks on the court during the first half of a practice match between the United States and Australia

When Bronny James was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA draftThe move sparked a debate among fans and analysts, with many questioning whether the Lakers’ decision was influenced by nepotism and whether James from LeBron son had the talent to play at the NBA level.

In his first appearance as a player for the Los Angeles Lakers, Bronny didn’t perform as he had hoped, managing just 4 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists in the loss to the Sacramento Kings.

Criticism quickly followed his first game, but Bronny’s performance improved with each game. LeBron James didn’t hesitate to send an encouraging message to his son from London, where Team USA will practice and play the next few days before Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Message from LeBron James to his son Bronny

After Bronny’s second straight strong performance, LeBron expressed his happiness at seeing his son achieve his dreams with the Lakers. Via Joe Vardon of The Athletic, LeBron said, “As a family we’re just proud that he’s even at this point.”

Bronny James Jr. #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives past Pete Nance #8 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during an NBA Summer League game in 2024. Candice Ward/Getty Images

The NBA’s all-time leading scorer stressed that his son is not distracted by criticism and is committed to self-improvement: “He’s 19 years old, so he still has a lot of room to grow and learn. The best thing is for him to keep his head down and stay focused. As he continues to work and improve, the best is yet to come.”

Bronny James in the Summer League

In his first games with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bronny James played a total of six games in the Summer League. His performance showed a notable improvement in the later games compared to the first.

In return for. Sacramento Kings: 4 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 turnovers (Loss)
In return for. Miami heat: 3 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 turnovers (Loss)
In return for. Houston rockets: 8 points, 5 rebounds, 0 assists, 3 turnovers (Loss)
In return for. boston celtics: 2 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 turnovers (Loss)
In return for. Atlanta Hawks: 12 points, 1 rebound, 0 assists, 1 turnover (To win)
In return for. Cleveland Cavaliers: 13 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 turnovers (To win)