Lakers emerged victorious against the Suns in OT.
Bronny James continues searching for time as a Laker, logging 17 minutes in Thursday’s preseason game against the Phoenix Suns. The rookie finished with four points, two rebounds, and two fouls, including a flagrant, while shooting 2-of-4 from the field. Notably, he recorded a +17 on the court, playing a key role during the fourth quarter and overtime.
In his fifth consecutive preseason appearance, Bronny shared the floor with stars like Anthony Davis, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal during the final period. A highlight moment came when Bronny drew a foul on Durant while attempting a dunk.
However, Bronny’s night also included his first NBA flagrant foul after a collision with Suns rookie Jalen Bridges, sending Bridges to the floor after an inadvertent body-check. It was a physical game, adding to Bronny’s experience in his young NBA career.
The game marked Bronny’s first overtime experience as a Laker, with fellow rookie Dalton Knecht forcing the extra period with a game-tying three. Bronny, despite not attempting any threes, remained active in crucial moments, helping secure a 128-122 win for the Lakers.
Read More: Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht sets the Suns down with 20 straight points in preseason clash
LeBron James utilized his day off to coach his son, Bronny James, from the sidelines. With LeBron not in the lineup, he took the opportunity to provide guidance, frequently speaking with Bronny before he entered the game. After some tough offensive possessions, LeBron offered suggestions to help Bronny find his rhythm.
This mentorship is invaluable for Bronny, especially during a challenging preseason. In five games, he has averaged just 1.6 points while shooting 20% from the field, and he has yet to make a three-pointer. These struggles underscore the difficulty Bronny faces in adjusting to the NBA’s competitive environment.
Compounding his challenges, Bronny’s preseason performance comes after a brief freshman season at USC, during which he suffered a cardiac arrest before his NCAA debut. This health scare has hindered his development, presenting additional obstacles as he transitions to the professional level.
Despite these difficulties, Bronny has secured a roster spot in the NBA for the foreseeable future. He will need to navigate the developmental process to build a sustainable career, and having his father as a mentor will be a significant advantage in his journey.