Has Bronny James fully recovered from the cardiac arrest that he suffered?
With the 2024 NBA Draft almost here, the USC star recently sat down to discuss everything from his famous father to the horrifying experience that he faced.
It would be safe to say that Bronny James is a unique prospect in this year’s NBA Draft and not just because his father happens to be the NBA’s all-time points leader and many fans’ vote for GOAT, but also because of what he has had to overcome to get here.
Bronny James opens up about cardiac arrest
It was just about nine months ago that Bronny James not only found himself fighting to preserve a career in basketball but for his very life as well. Indeed, in July of last year, James suffered a cardiac arrest during a USC Trojans practice session, which in turn led to a long road back to the court. In the end, James was able to play 25 games for the Trojans before finally declaring for the draft, something that he required medical clearance for in order to qualify.
This, brings us back to the present where James has expressed that he would simply like to move on from the incident which was caused by a congenital heart defect. With that said, he did admit to reporters at the combine that the issue was still in his mind. “It’s still lingering. My parents were a big factor of believing in me and giving me the love and affection that I needed at that time. I still think about everything that could happen but I just love the game so much it just overpowers everything. I was set back but that’s not an excuse. I’ve put in so many years of work and I don’t want anyone to think that because I had this issue that I’m lower than everyone else.” Continuing, James explained that despite the blow, the scenario is actually about his perseverance. “It was a tough time for sure but all this work I’ve put in, it’s just really built me into someone that will never give up and it paid off because I put the work into that situation and I’m back to where I want to be.”
As for numbers, it’s got to be said that James has been impressive at the combine so far. From his 40.5 inch jump which was recorded as the third-best vertical jump overall, to his second place finish in the 3-point shooting drill with 19-of-25, James has been solid all around. There was also his Day 2 performance in a scrimmage, where he displayed both his passing skills as well as his defensive prowess, attributes that are considered to be his best at the moment. Ultimately, only time will tell if James is in fact ready for the NBA, something that some scouts continue to question. On the other hand, it sounds like he’s not short on belief.