Bronny James’ emotional return to action after horror cardiac arrest will have ‘crazy’ impact for USC on and off court
BRONNY James' emotional return to action is set to spark a massive impact - on and off the court.
Just four months after suffering a shock cardiac arrest during practice on July 24, the eldest son of NBA legend LeBron, is closing in on a remarkable comeback.
The 19 year-old is waiting for the green light from USC medics to resume full contact training, having been given the go-ahead to rejoin his team-mates last week.
This weekend's clash with Long Beach State will come too soon, but sources behind the scenes have told The U.S. Sun his return will be "crazy", for the player, the team, and the Pac-12 marketing men.
Naturally, all eyes were on Bronny, who successfully came through a procedure to treat a congenital heart defect, thanks to his superstar dad before his collapse earlier this summer.
Now, however, with his medical issues mercifully behind him, a return to action - and potentially taking a step towards emulating LeBron and competing in the NBA - is getting closer.
Bronny has been able to take part in some individual drills and also some pre-game preparations, with his mental strength and physical toughness key in helping him making a full recovery.
A member of the USC coaching team, who spoke to The U.S. Sun on the condition of anonymity, said Bronny's "amazing" comeback has boosted everyone in the roster.
No-one is pushing too hard - "it will be a step by step process" said the insider - but the anticipation of the guard being restored to a team who have already made a strong start to the season, cannot be understated.
"I think that he can help us reach another level with his impact on both sides of the court and his competitiveness," said the source who also spoke about the huge "relief" at Bronny making such a solid recovery.
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"His presence with us is already a difference maker, as he is such a great leader and a person that is very supportive of his teammates and has a fantastic aura."
Bronny's situation was headline news and the moment he steps back onto the court, the attention is sure to be off the scale.
A business and marketing source believes his mere presence will entice more advertisers and sponsors to invest in USC, as the road to March Madness continues.
The moneymen know wherever he plays, the arenas are sure to be sold out with the insider claiming it's a "win-win for everyone."
TV ratings will also improve, especially as the likes of LeBron and other A-list stars like Kim Kardashian and Drake have been courtside in the past.
"His return to health is fantastic news for basketball and business," claimed the source.
Another expert said USC could make "an extra $20 to $30 million" from a deep, successful run this season, with Bronny one of the most followed athletes in the history of college sport.
"If USC gets to March Madness, the money for him and for the college is going to be bigger and bigger," said the business consultant who works with the NCAA.
"Also, let’s not forget if he doesn’t go to the NBA Draft at the end of the season and decides to stay for a sophomore year at USC, the money is going to be big, and the business will be amazing for everyone."
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