Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss talks about Bronny James and his recent performance in the NBA Summer League.
Jeanie Buss talks about Bronny James (image via NBA)
In the 2024 NBA draft, the Los Angeles Lakers caused a stir by selecting Bronny James, making it one of the most talked about picks. This move faced a lot of criticism in the world of basketball as many felt Bronny was not ready. However, the Lakers management believed in the younger James as they made the pick in the draft. Recently, Jeanie Buss, the controlling owner of the Lakers, spoke about her expectations for the young rookie, showing her belief in his abilities.
Jeanie Buss discussed Bronny James proving himself worthy of wearing a Lakers uniform during an interview with Petros and Money on AM 570. Despite not confirming Bronny as the next main star of the Lakers, she expressed admiration for his performance so far. Buss also acknowledged the high expectations for Bronny as the son of the legendary LeBron James, highlighting the pressure he faces.
Yeah, I mean, again, we have to let the kid have an opportunity to play and prove that he should be in a Laker uniform. And everything that we’ve seen from him and about him and his work ethic, just some of the things he’s had to overcome being the son of a big star. He works hard, he’s dedicated. He really wants to do this. And if we can have a roster of players with that same mentality, then I think the sky is the limit.Jeanie Buss via AM 570
The younger James showed great promise and a well-rounded game in the 2024 NBA Summer League. In the beginning, it felt Bronny wasn’t able to catch up with the pace of the NBA. Fortunately, Bronny found his rhythm. He averaged 8.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.0 assists per game. But the main highlight of his game is his defense and has shown blueprints of a great future defender.
Fans couldn’t expect the younger James to contribute a lot in his first season and will take time to grow as a player. The Lakers will be entering the next season with almost no changes. But with a new head coach in JJ Redick, fans could expect something new in the next coming season.
Jeanie Buss compares LeBron James to Lakers legends Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson
This offseason NBA fans saw some drama over LeBron James and his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. But eventually, James signed a $101.3 million deal with the Lakers. Recently, Jeanie Buss talked about James and compared him to some Laker Legends. During an interview on AM 570, Buss talked about LeBron James and his recent contract with the Lakers being a bargain.
She even hinted at potentially paying more to James if not for the salary cap rules. She also compared James’ contributions to the Lakers to that of legends Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant, who both played only for the Lakers and gave their all for the team. Buss felt that all these stars had added more worth to the team than what they had signed for.
We’re proud to be partners with him. It’s the same as Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant, because we’re in a capped league, they probably should have been paid twice what they get. But we can only pay him the maximum.Jeanie Buss via AM 570
At the start of the offseason, James was willing to accept less money so that the Lakers could sign a top star. However, the Lakers’ management was unsuccessful in securing a significant star this offseason. As a result, James ended up signing a $101.3 million deal. Fresh off his Olympic victory, James will enter the next season with momentum on his side.