“As a kid growing up, watching Kobe, watching a kid come straight out of high school is something I kind of admired. I was like, ‘If he can do it, then maybe I can be one of the guys that do it, too.’” LeBron James strove to do what Kobe Bryant did, and he did. In 2003, he was named the first overall pick in the draft straight out of high school. Now, 21 years later, his eldest son Bronny James could do something similar. While he may be a year late to the party, entering the 2024 draft is a possibility. However, it’s a decision that’s up for debate.

As the 19-year-old USC Trojans freshman pursues his basketball career, NBA scouts and executives debate his draft chances and possible influence in the league. Considering he’s played only a handful of college games, there is a disagreement on Bronny’s ability to enter the NBA and the trajectory of his professional career. And NFL legend Richard Sherman discussed this with former wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson on Undisputed.

Bronny has LeBron James’ wish to consider

Richard Sherman opined, “I don’t think [Bronny] is going to declare for the NBA draft. I don’t think he would get drafted high enough right now. So, it would be in his best interest to play another [year in college].” As Sherman said this, Johnson felt differently. “If he comes out, he’ll get drafted.” This started a back-and-forth between the Super Bowl champions, with Sherman bringing up the LeBron James factor.

The 39-year-old has expressed multiple times how he’d like to share the court with Bronny. Considering this admission, Sherman said, “He’ll get drafted because people want LeBron to go to the organization.” If this is the case, franchises that want LeBron James in their colors would want to sign Bronny if he were to enter the draft this season. Per Sherman, if Bronny does make it to the NBA this year, “He wouldn’t be having the season he would want to have coming out of college to get drafted where he wants.” However, Johnson begged to differ again.

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“Remember, you can’t show a whole lot [of your skill and talent in college basketball],” claimed Johnson. “He may be better suited as a pro basketball player than a college basketball player.” The NFL legend understood what Johnson wanted to say but asked, “But is Bronny even a starter?” As it turns out, that doesn’t matter, per Johnson. He believes, “NBA scouts and executives have already made a decision on basketball players by the time they get to college on where they’re going to be as far as prospects go.” So why play at the collegiate level instead of doing what LeBron and Kobe Bryant did?

“Going to college is just an extra layer of one year, maybe two years,” explained the former wide receiver. Having that extra experience before the NBA never hurts, and given that Richard Sherman feels staying in college basketball for another year or so is what Bronny James should do, why is the USC player considering the 2024 draft? That’s because time is of the essence.

LeBron James may be one of the greatest players to have played basketball, but he isn’t getting any younger. Given his wish to play with Bronny in the NBA, it needs to happen sooner rather than later. But if what Keyshawn Johnson had to say was true, Bronny’s spot in the NBA may already be sealed. However, has he shown any signs of being a great player in his college career?

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The college journey of Bronny James

Bronny’s college career at USC has consisted of both achievements and struggles. The 19-year-old star’s debut got pushed as he suffered a cardiac arrest in July. However, Bronny’s determination has been evident as he worked toward getting back on the court. Having debuted in December, he adapted to the collegiate level, showcasing growth in his performance despite initial setbacks.

He’s played 15 games so far, averaging 5.8 points, 3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, shooting 36.1% field goals. While his numbers may not always represent his full potential, scouts and executives have praised Bronny’s defensive skills and eagerness to contribute in every aspect of the game. So, the discussion about whether Bronny is fit for the NBA goes beyond his on-court ability.

While some suggest he should wait for another year of collegiate growth to improve his game, others feel he has the potential to make a big difference. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.

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