In French on Seneweb here. Quotes of my interview on The Mirror.
LeBron Raymone “Bronny” James Jr., or simply Bronny James, carries a legacy that would weigh heavily on anyone. Being the first-born son of LeBron James—a legend often debated alongside Michael Jordan for the title of the greatest ever—comes with a global spotlight. Now, as a professional with the Los Angeles Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, Bronny has moved past the novelty of playing with his father and into the grind of a true NBA rotation player.
While he shares the court with “The King,” Bronny is carving out a distinct identity. At 6’2″ (1.88m), he doesn’t rely on his father’s sheer physical dominance. Instead, he plays the point guard position with a defensive grit and a quiet discipline that has earned the respect of his veteran teammates.
The “Student” Mindset
Navigating the constant noise of being “the son of,” Bronny displays a rare resilience—a testament to the grounded upbringing provided by LeBron and Savannah James. When questioned about the weight of his unique position, he chooses gratitude over grievance. “I wouldn’t say best or hardest,” Bronny tells us. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and I’m trying to get better every day. I’m trying to enjoy it for as long as possible. I’m just happy to play the sport I love.”
The veteran wisdom passed down from his father serves as a daily mantra for his survival in the high-pressure Los Angeles market. Bronny stays focused on a simple rule: “Making sure to block out the outside noise, keep working on my game and stay sane, keep improving. That’s what he tells me all the time.”
Beyond the Headlines: A Legacy of Hard Work
For Bronny, the pride of the James family isn’t found in highlights, but in the effort. “It’s great!” he says with his characteristic shy smile when asked about making his father proud. “I love playing basketball. I’ve loved it since I was little, it’s always great to get out on the court, make a few baskets, and win. It’s an incredible feeling.”
This dedication is translating into real production. Averaging 17 points per game in the G League, he has shown he is more than just a famous name. He is a professional athlete refining his craft. This readiness is crucial as the Lakers’ roster evolves. With the recent trade sending Gabe Vincent for sharpshooter Luke Kennard, the Lakers are looking for high-IQ facilitators—a role Bronny is preparing to fill as he transitions from an “apprentice” to a reliable depth piece.
Seizing the Moment in Brooklyn
The culmination of this growth was on full display during the Lakers’ recent victory over the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center. As the New York crowd broke into chants of “We want Bronny!”, the rookie checked in for the closing minutes. He didn’t just participate; he delivered, capping the night with two baskets that drew a roar from the sellout crowd.
Reflecting on the dominant road win, Bronny remained as level-headed as ever: “It’s a great feeling. A win is a win, so I’m trying to enjoy it and I’m looking forward to going home. It’s been a long road trip.”
Watching his son validate his place on the floor, LeBron James—the NBA’s all-time leading scorer—shared a sentiment that went beyond basketball. “For Bronny to be able to be in those games and play the way he’s playing, it’s really cool for me.”
In a league that often focuses on the “next big thing,” Bronny James is content being the student of the game, earning his stripes one bucket at a time.
