Savannah James is visibly a proud mama bear as she’s often seen on the sidelines cheering on her son Bronny James at his USC games. A recent clip from before USC’s game against Arizona in the Pac-12 Tournament quarterfinals shows Bronny hugging his mother before things kicking off. Bronny is a possible draft pick for the 2024 NBA Draft but what does Mama James want for her kid? [It’s very different from what pops LeBron James‘ heart may desire!]
USC freshman Bronny James’ season ended with a 70-49 defeat to Arizona in the Pac-12 Tournament quarterfinals on Thursday. The 19-year-old guard, son of NBA legend LeBron James, participated in 25 games after missing the initial 8 due to a summer health scare involving a proper cardiac arrest.
In a clip on Instagram dating back to 2022, when asked what’s the hope for Bronny’s future, mama Savannah had a heartwarming answer, “To be happy, to find happiness in whatever he does.” Whereas pops LeBron wittily stated, “I want him in the NBA. I’m not even gonna lie.”
Now, Bronny is at a crossroad. Does he take his talents to the 2024 NBA Draft, potentially following the goated path paved by his pops? Or does he stay aboard the USC Trojan ship and lead them through their transition to the Big Ten?
Bronny James: The Next Chapter
A USC return would be a major boost for the Trojans. James’ experience would be gold in their Big Ten debut, potentially giving him the starting role. USC will experience roster turnover with the projected departure of players like Boogie Ellis, Kobe Johnson, and Collier, which will give Bronny a more leadership-type role.
LeBron’s got a decision to make too. The “L” Train holds a player option for the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Lakers. NBA rumor mill suggests that he might pursue a $200-million deal, potentially keeping him in LA.
LeBron has been vocal about his desire to share the court with his son. While strategically declining his option could expedite the NBA reunion, Bronny still needs to throw his hat in the draft ring first. The Lakers have their second-round pick, but their first-rounder belongs to the Pelicans, who also have their sights set on the Lakers’ 2025 first-round pick.
So, will Bronny test the NBA waters or become USC’s anchor in the Big Ten? Only time will tell. All Mama James wants her Bronny to be happy so he’ll always have her to fall back on!