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The 2024 NBA draft is roughly one month away and here at College Sports Wire we are evaluating the college basketball stars who are hoping to hear their name called in June. Today it was reported that Bronny James, former USC point guard and son of NBA superstar LeBron James, will stay in the NBA draft process and end his collegiate career after one season with the Trojans.
James is easily the most notable, and polarizing, prospect in this draft class. Even though Rich Paul – LeBron’s agent – has refuted the notion that LeBron will sign with whoever drafts or signs Bronny, it has created a difficult situation for the younger James.
A recent report indicated Bronny is only working out for the Phoenix Suns – who pick at No. 22 – and the Los Angeles Lakers, who pick at No. 55 in the second round.
Ultimately, Bronny’s performance at USC looks underwhelming when compared to other one-and-done prospects, and even though he tested well at the combine with a 40.5 inch vertical and a 6’7 wingspan, his draft stock is overshadowed by his dad’s pending free agency.
Below is a look at James’ profile, including his measurements at the combine, strengths and weaknesses as a player, and current projected draft range and team fits in the NBA:
Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
From: Los Angeles, CA
Played: USC (2023-24)
2023-24 Stats: 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 48.1% on twos, 26.7% from three
Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Height: 6’1 (without shoes)
Weight: 210 pounds
Wingspan: 6’7.25
Standing Reach: 8’2.5
Max Vertical Leap: 40.5 inches
Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports
- Above average athlete, posted a 40.5 inch vertical leap and did well at agility testing
- Long arms (6’7 wingspan) and stocky frame make up for lack of height, his build is similar to a handful of productive NBA players including Gary Harris and Gabe Vincent
- Cerebral basketball player, makes good reads as both a lead guard and in a complimentary off ball role
- Utilizes his length and strength to be an impactful point of attack defender, and navigates screens well
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
- 6’1 height is concerning, even if he can play point guard
- Didn’t finish well around the rim despite stocky frame, and wasn’t productive from the free throw line (67.6%)
- Outside shooting was not good at USC, would need to improve dramatically in that area to make an impact at the next level
- Despite plus defensive instincts, didn’t generate many steals (0.8 per game) last season
- Had a chance to take over as primary point guard after Isaiah Collier’s injury, but didn’t really impact winning in that role
James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Draft Range: ??? (mocked anywhere from late first to late second to undrafted)
CSW Mock: 55 to Los Angeles Lakers
Team Fits: Lakers, or a team desperate to make a push for LeBron James in free agency
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Courtesy : https://collegesportswire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nba-draft-profile-for-usc-guard-bronny-james/