Bronny James made his preseason debut for the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, and while it wasn't the NBA Finals or even the most highly anticipated game of the year, it was a moment that marked the beginning of something special. Sure, it was Game 1 of the preseason, but Bronny James had a standout moment that felt almost destined – a chase-down block, reminiscent of the iconic blocks his father, LeBron James, is known for. Even more exciting? LeBron was right there, on the bench, witnessing it all.
The Lakers, unfortunately, fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-107 in this preseason opener, but the game gave a glimpse of the younger James' potential. Bronny’s performance wasn’t about the points – in fact, he only scored two on 1-for-6 shooting – but it was about his impact, particularly on the defensive end. Over his 16 minutes on the court, he led the team with three blocked shots, showing flashes of brilliance that Lakers fans and the basketball world are excited to see grow.
A Defensive Highlight Reel in the Making
The first of Bronny's three blocks happened quickly, just under a minute into the second quarter. The Timberwolves' Nickeil Alexander-Walker intercepted a pass intended for D'Angelo Russell and took off toward the basket. It seemed like an easy score – until Bronny decided it wasn’t going to happen. Sprinting after the 6-foot-5 Alexander-Walker, the 6-foot-2 Bronny leaped effortlessly and swatted the shot away, a perfect chase-down block that left the crowd buzzing.
And this wasn’t just luck or a fluke. Bronny’s instincts and defensive prowess have been honed, and Lakers head coach JJ Redick took notice. Redick, a seasoned NBA player turned coach, said, “As a coaching staff, before the game, we were going over our rotation, and we talked about Bronny. He's had some really good days in August and September, and this week, he had three exceptional days in practice. We’re really happy with his progress."
Growing Pains on Offense, But a Work in Progress
While the block was undoubtedly the highlight, Bronny’s offensive game showed that there’s still work to be done. His offensive performance included missed opportunities – a floater that hit the back of the rim, a baseline pull-up that sailed too high, a blocked attempt at the rim, and a few missed jumpers. It wasn’t his night for scoring, but that didn’t overshadow his overall potential.
He did manage to get his first bucket with just under a minute left in the game. With 56.2 seconds remaining, many fans were already making their way out of Acrisure Arena, but the Lakers' “home” crowd who remained cheered loudly as Bronny drove to the hoop for a layup. It was a small moment, but an important one, showing that he can find his rhythm even during challenging performances.
Redick acknowledged the offensive struggles but didn’t seem overly concerned. "He’s still figuring out who he is offensively,” Redick explained. “That’s part of our job as a player development program – to build him up and help him find that part of his game. But defensively, he’s already showing things that are really unique. At his size, he can do some things that not everyone can, and that’s going to make him a disruptive defender.”
A Coach's Dream
Redick’s praise for Bronny didn’t stop at his defensive skillset. What really stood out to the coach was Bronny’s attitude and energy. “He’s got a great soul,” Redick said with a smile. “He’s so easy to coach. Just a great energy about him. I like being around him. I’m rooting for him. He’s a good player, and we’re really happy to have him in our program.”
For any young player coming into the NBA, having the right attitude is just as important as having the skill. And for Bronny, who is under the microscope thanks to his famous father, it’s essential. But Redick’s comments indicate that Bronny’s character, work ethic, and willingness to learn might be just as impressive as his game.
Father-Son Moments on the Horizon?
Speaking of his father, LeBron James didn’t take the court on Friday. The 22-year NBA veteran was rested by Redick, especially after his summer playing for Team USA in the Paris Olympics. But Lakers fans won’t have to wait too long to see the iconic duo in action together. Redick mentioned that LeBron is expected to suit up for the Lakers’ next preseason game on Sunday when they face off against the Phoenix Suns.
That game could be historic. It might be the first time LeBron and Bronny share the court as teammates, something basketball fans have been eagerly waiting for since Bronny’s high school days. The possibility of a father-son duo playing in the NBA has been the talk of the league for years, and it’s looking more and more likely that it could happen this season.
What’s Next for Bronny?
While it’s easy to focus on Bronny’s connection to his father and the excitement surrounding their potential on-court partnership, it’s important to remember that Bronny is forging his own path. The chase-down block was just one highlight in what could be a long and exciting career. His performance on defense, combined with the flashes of skill and the moments of energy and hustle, show that Bronny is more than just LeBron’s son – he’s an NBA player in his own right.
Of course, there’s work to be done. His offense needs to develop, his shooting needs to improve, and his overall game needs refining. But that’s expected for any young player stepping into the league. What matters most is that Bronny has shown he’s willing to put in the work, and he’s got a coaching staff behind him that believes in his potential.
Key Takeaways
- Bronny’s Defensive Prowess: Three blocked shots in his debut, including a highlight chase-down block, show his defensive potential.
- Room for Growth on Offense: While his offensive performance wasn’t stellar, there’s plenty of time for Bronny to develop his shooting and scoring ability.
- LeBron’s Support: Having his father on the bench, and potentially sharing the court with him soon, adds a unique dynamic to Bronny’s journey.
- Coach Redick’s Confidence: JJ Redick sees the potential in Bronny and is excited to see how he grows within the Lakers’ development system.
Bronny James is just getting started. His preseason debut wasn’t about putting up big numbers, but about showing that he belongs in the NBA. And with the right mindset, coaching, and support, there’s no doubt that he’s on the path to making his own name in the league. For Lakers fans, this is just the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling ride.
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