The NBA is home to the best basketball players in the world. Along with that, it also has the best strategic minds and facilities in the game. This combination has established the NBA as the pinnacle of basketball. The stellar performances on offer have captivated the fans of the sport for decades. Naturally, this makes the NBA a dream destination for all aspiring hoopers. Over its 77 years of history, only 4,374 hoopers have had the opportunity to play in the NBA. It would be an understatement to suggest that the odds are stacked against an aspiring hooper.

However, of players who do make it to the NBA, only a select few, fulfill their pre-draft expectations. Attaining the status of all-time greats is even rarer, with only a handful of players becoming true icons of the game. Yet, despite being anointed as the “Chosen One” even before entering the NBA, LeBron James has not only fulfilled those expectations but remarkably exceeded them. Following in LeBron’s footsteps poses a daunting task for anyone. Nevertheless, that is precisely what the public expects Bronny James to do. Can he handle the pressure that comes with being the first-born to King James?

Can Bronny James create a name for himself in the NBA?

Being LeBron James’ son is a double-edged sword. On one hand, he benefited from state-of-the-art facilities and abundant opportunities during his development. But on the flip side, the pressure surrounding Bronny has always been immense because of his association with LeBron. The pressure will increase tenfold once Bronny comes into the NBA. With millions of people watching and anticipating Bronny James to follow in his father’s footsteps, the pressure can be overwhelming for anyone, particularly a teenager. If Bronny doesn’t live up to the hype, things can get really ugly, really quickly.

With Bronny about to make his college debut for the University of Southern California, the upcoming games will soon provide insights into whether he possesses the skill set required to be in the NBA. Despite not playing a single game for USC this season, Bronny is still projected to be drafted by the Lakers with the 25th pick.

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If the projection comes true, then LeBron will fulfill his wish to play with his son. He has stated on multiple occasions that he desires to share an NBA court with Bronny. In an interview with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, LeBron said, “I need to be on the floor with my boy. I gotta be on the floor with Bronny.” He added further, “I would love to do the whole Ken Griffey Sr./Jr. thing. That would be ideal, for sure, being with him, spending a full year with him in the same uniform, that would be the icing on the cake.”

It is certain that Bronny will have the opportunity to compete in the NBA. Yet, the legacy he will forge in the league remains uncertain. Nevertheless, Bronny has demonstrated resilience, making a comeback from an incident that could have prematurely halted his career.

The incident which had the potential to stall Bronny’s career

On 27th July, reports emerged that Bronny had suffered a cardiac arrest while practicing at USC’s basketball facilities. Bronny received treatment at the Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. Despite recovering from cardiac arrest, Bronny was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. This sparked speculation regarding Bronny’s future in basketball. Thankfully, medical professionals declared Bronny’s heart condition as treatable.

On 1st December, after just 130 days, doctors granted full clearance for Bronny to resume playing basketball. This development sets the stage for his eventual debut with the Trojans. A statement from James’ family read, “Bronny James is now cleared by his doctors for a full return to basketball. Bronny will have a final evaluation with USC staff this week, resume practice next week, and return to games soon after.”

With Bronny beginning to train with his college teammates next week after undergoing his final evaluation, the potential debut game could be against Long Beach State on December 10th. The game will be a guaranteed occasion, with LeBron James surely gracing the occasion with his presence. However, after almost five months of absence, could Bronny James replicate his stellar varsity form for the Trojans?

Can Bronny help the Trojans?

The USC Trojans currently occupy the 6th spot in the Pac-12 standings, having won seven games and losing another five. They have lost their last three games, however, the return of Bronny will boost morale. His return also provides backup to Isiah Collier and Boogie Ellis.

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Bronny James averaged 14 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists in his senior year for Sierra Canyon. However, his impact goes far beyond statistics and numbers. His basketball IQ, reminiscent of LeBron, coupled with his unselfish nature, would significantly improve the Trojans. He isn’t a slouch on the defensive end either. Bronny uses his size and athleticism to effectively hound opposing guards. He is a player that impacts winning. With Bronny’s debut around the corner, can he impress in the dress rehearsal before stepping onto the grand stage of the NBA?

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