NBA
Bronny James’ debut with the Lakers in the NBA Summer League: stats and highlights
James Jr made his first appearance for the Los Angeles franchise against the Sacramento Kings in the California Classic Summer League.
The Los Angeles Lakers have begun their preparation for the 2024-25 NBA season on Saturday in the California Classic Summer League, in which a number of the franchise’s younger players are taking part, including Bronny James. On Saturday, the Lakers faced the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center in the 19-year-old’s first game for the team.
How did Bronny James do on his Lakers debut?
Bronny, the son of NBA icon and now Lakers teammate LeBron James, played for 21:43 minutes, registering four points, four assists, two rebounds and a steal. He struggled with three-pointers, though, missing all three attempted.
James’ first basket in the Summer League, and first ever in a Lakers jersey, came following a handoff from Colin Castleton on the three-point line, with the young point guard driving to the basket and bagging two points with a layup.
James Jr’s second basket was a jumper from just inside the line. Bronny picked up possession from Dalton Knecht near the left sideline and dribbled past Dane Goodwin to create the space for the jump shot.
When do the Lakers play next in the California Classic League?
Despite James’ best efforts, the Lakers were defeated 108-94 by the Kings.
The Los Angeles franchise still has two more games to play in the California Classic Summer League, jointly hosted by the Kings and the Golden State Warriors. On Sunday (July 7) at 6:30 p.m. ET, they will face the Warriors before finishing up the competition with a matchup against the Miami Heat on Wednesday (July 10).
Late on Saturday, the Lakers officially confirmed that LeBron James had signed a new contract with the franchise, which means we will see the first ever father-son duo in the NBA when the 2024/25 season starts in October.