Bronny James makes decision over basketball future as prospect ‘declines workout invites’ ahead of NBA Draft
BRONNY James has reportedly decided to stay in the 2024 NBA Draft, forgoing college eligibility.
The former University of Southern California guard — and LeBron James' son — is also said to have been very selective when it comes to accepting pre-draft workout invites from teams.
Bronny, 19, had until 11:59 pm ET on Wednesday to withdraw from the draft if he wanted to continue his college basketball career.
But just hours before the deadline, his agent, Rich Paul, told ESPN that the 6-foot-2 shooting guard would stay in after a strong pre-draft process.
"Bronny's [draft] range is wide," Paul said.
"He's a really good prospect who has a lot of room for growth. It only takes one team.
READ MORE ON THE NBA
"I don't care where that team is — it can be No. 1 or 58 — [but] I do care about the plan, the development. The team's strategy, the opportunity, and the financial commitment."
Paul also reiterated that Bronny would not sign a two-way contract with any NBA team.
And it seems there might be franchises he's not interested in joining at all.
James Jr. reportedly received workout invites from over 10 teams, per NBA insider Shams Charania.
But he is believed to have said yes to a couple only, the Los Angeles Lakers — where his dad has played since 2018 — and Phoenix Suns, Charania added a few days later.
The Suns own the 22nd overall pick in this year's draft.
Meanwhile, the Lakers will make their selections at Nos. 17 and 55.
James said in the past he would love to play with Bronny on the same team.
The 20-time All-Star backtracked on those comments after they pushed his son further into the already-heavy spotlight.
But Paul recently said he didn't mind the Lakers superstar's remarks.
2024 NBA Draft order - lottery picks
- Atlanta Hawks
- Washington Wizards
- Houston Rockets (via Brooklyn)
- San Antonio Spurs
- Detroit Pistons
- Charlotte Hornets
- Portland Trail Blazers
- San Antonio Spurs (via Toronto)
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Utah Jazz
- Chicago Bulls
- Oklahoma City Thunder (via Houston)
- Sacramento Kings
- Portland Trail Blazers (via Golden State)
"If he wants to play with his son, that's that," the Klutch Sports owner, who's also James' agent, told NBA insider Chris Haynes.
"But again, I have a job to do representing Bronny and LeBron.
"LeBron's season's over. I'm focused on Bronny and the rest of our draft class.
"If it aligns where he can play with his dad, great. Am I necessarily focused on that? No, not at all.
Read More on The US Sun
"I'm focused on a team-plan investment and a seriousness as it pertains to fit and opportunity."
The 2024 NBA Draft takes place between June 26-27.