Bronny James’ path with the Los Angeles Lakers this term hasn’t been straightforward

LeBron James and Bronny JamesLAPRESSE

Bronny James has come a long way since his shaky rookie start – from navigating ego-fueled growing pains in the G League to holding his own against elite NBA competition.

The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been one of resilience, self-awareness, and undeniable progress.

Early in the season, Bronny drew criticism for trying to do too much, too soon. Comparisons to Warriors rookie Brandin Podziemski are fitting.

“He was trying too hard to be an All-Star instead of just taking the next step.” Steve Kerr said of Podz.

Bronny, too, was battling similar mental hurdles, which weren’t helped by his surname.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick didn’t mince words when he questioned his decision to bring Bronny off the bench in a January 28 game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Bronny finished scoreless on 0-for-5 shooting with three turnovers in 15 minutes. The criticism was loud – and warranted.

But Bronny wasn’t blind to his own shortcomings.

“From the start of the year, I’d say I was under a lot of pressure and the ego was getting to me a bit,” he admitted after the Lakers’ season-ending loss to Minnesota.

“Those G League games, and even the one against the Bucks, really helped build my confidence. They reminded me what I’m capable of.”

G-League games improved Bronny’s fundamentals

Indeed, his time with the South Bay Lakers in the G League was pivotal. Bronny averaged an impressive 22 points, 5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 2 steals while shooting 44% from the field and 38% from three-point range. Those numbers demanded a closer look – and eventually, they earned him another chance with the big club.

Despite the Lakers’ disappointing season, Bronny’s evolution is a silver lining. He appears poised for a breakout campaign in 2025-26, and it all stems from a major shift in mindset and maturity. What once looked like overconfidence now resembles self-belief.

Behind the scenes, he’s had the rare advantage of his father, LeBron James, as both teammate and mentor. When asked about his offseason focus, LeBron was emphatic, despite facing questions about his own future in the NBA.

“Bronny’s development is priority number one, for sure. That’s easy. That’s not even close,” LeBron declared.

LeBron couldn’t hide his pride when reflecting on his son’s growth.

“Just to see what he was able to do every single day – channeling his mind, putting in the work – it’s been incredible,” he said.

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“When we rested players in that game against Milwaukee, Bronny showed he belongs. He’s got a bright future. And he’s a great fu**ing kid.”

As the season ends, one thing is clear: Bronny James has silenced the early critics and proved he’s more than just a name. The confidence, the work ethic, and the support of one of the greatest players of all time have set him on a path toward a promising NBA career.