Bronny James, son of NBA superstar LeBron James, has officially declared for the NBA Draft.
James posted on Instagram Friday morning to make the announcement. Here's his full statement:
"I've had a year with some ups and downs but all added to growth for me as a man, student, and athlete. I've made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility, and will also be entering the NCAA transfer portal.
"Thank you to USC for an amazing Freshman year, and as always thankful for my family, friends, doctors, athletic trainers, and fans for their support."
James committed to USC in May of 2023. In July, he suffered a cardiac arrest at a practice, which delayed his start to the season.
James was miraculously able to return to the court in December and ended up appearing in 25 games for USC this season. The freshman averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 19.3 minutes per game, and showed off both as a facilitator and a defender.
The Trojans struggled in James' first and now only season at USC, and their season ended with head coach Andy Enfield leaving for SMU. On Thursday, the Trojans officially hired their new coach, former Arkansas head coach Eric Musselman.
James is now leaving USC after one season, and declaring for the NBA Draft. However, he's maintaining his college eligibility, meaning he could return to college in 2024 —but it won't be at USC.
James says he's also entering the transfer portal, so if he does end up returning to college next year, it won't be with the Trojans.
What Does Bronny James Declaring for the NBA Draft Mean for LeBron?
With Bronny officially declaring for the NBA Draft, all eyes now shift to his father.
LeBron has made it known that he wants to play alongside his son at the NBA level, and many have speculated that the elder James would sign with whatever team drafted his son. That has also led people to believe that LeBron could help Bronny's draft stock.
James has a player option with the Lakers for the 2024-25 season. If he declines the option, he could enter unrestricted free agency. Thus, he'd technically be able to sign with whatever team drafted his son, if he so chooses.
The NBA Draft is on June 27. LeBron has until June 29 to make a decision on his player option. Then, on July 1, NBA free agency officially kicks off.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Noah Camras graduated from USC in 2022 with a B.A. in Journalism and minor in Sports Media Studies. He's worked ... Read more
