NBA
Bronny James receives medical clearance for 2024 NBA Draft: will he be drafted?
After a difficult year at USC, James Jr’s hopes of being drafted could depend on the LA Lakers and dad LeBron James.
Bronny James, the son of LA Lakers icon LeBron James, was medically cleared to take part in the 2024 draft by the league’s Fitness to Play Panel on Monday, although big questions remain over where - and if - he will feature in the 2024/25 NBA season.
The 19-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest while training with the University of Southern California last July but returned to the court less than five months later after making a full recovery.
James Jr, as expected, was unanimously approved by three separate physicians this week, allowing him to take part in the pre-draft combine.
What options does Bronny James have for the 2024 NBA Draft?
Before the incident, Bronny had been projected as a No. 17 first-round pick in ESPN’s mock draft for this year, although his stock has fallen considerably since then after a difficult freshman year, to be expected under the circumstances. More recent projections suggest he might not be drafted at all, although his surname and profile, along with his father’s current situation, means it might not just come down to his on-court ability and performances.
Along with declaring for the draft, James Jr has maintained his college eligibility; he has until 29 May to decide whether to stay in the draft or return to college.
Some experts believe there is no doubt the teenager would be continuing his college career, either at USC or elsewhere, were it not for the fact dad LeBron, 39, is coming towards the end of his NBA career.
Which NBA teams could draft Bronny James?
James Sr has said on several occasions that he would like to play with his son before he retires, which would he a historic first in the NBA.
And some reports have claimed the Lakers, who may or may not get the No. 17 draft first-round draft pick depending on the New Orleans Pelicans, are said to be willing to draft Bronny if that then ensures LeBron, who could enter free agency at the end of the season, stays on.
Los Angeles will also have the No. 55 pick in the second round.
Despite his advancing years, NBA icon James Sr averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game in the regular season, and was their standout player in their first-round playoff defeat to the Nuggets.
With James Jr far from being certain of being drafted, it’s difficult to make a case for him joining any other team. That means the most likely outcomes are that he joins up with his father at the Lakers or plays college basketball for another year.