After averaging just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in his freshman year, Bronny James took the sudden decision to go pro. The USC Trojans guard has been facing criticism over the last few days, as some believe he is too inexperienced to enter the NBA, while others do not want him to take this decision to just fulfill his father LeBron James‘s desire to play with him. But also at the same time, a few NBA veterans believe Bronny can suit NBA basketball better than collegiate basketball. The latest to say this is none other than former Golden State Warriors superstar Baron Davis, who believes Bronny’s decision is a smart move. 

In a new video released by TMZ, Baron Davis was questioned about this controversial topic. The 2x All-Star said, “Smart move! I think for him to declare for the draft will be good because he may be a better pro than he is a college player.” Davis justified his take too, “The ball game is a lot different. It’s more free-flowing, you are not coached every moment. You’re not playing zone all the time.”

And Davis thinks Bronny will be better in the NBA because “He athletic, smart point guard, he can shoot the ball. If I was him, I’ll try my hand too. If I don’t like what I see, now I can go back into the portal.” The 44-year-old NBA icon believes it’s a win-win for 19-year-old Bronny. 

A few former NBA players who have mentioned something similar to the above lines would be Boston Celtics legend Kendrick Perkins, Jeff Teague, and a few other analysts. On the other hand, Charles Barkley does not want Bronny to team up with his dad whatsoever. While all these predictions came out after Bronny took the sudden decision, there was one former NBA veteran who made his case for the 19-year-old to go pro way before. 

New York Knicks icon wanted Bronny James to join the NBA even before he declared for the draft

Stephon Marbury has been following college basketball quite closely. In the first week of March Madness, Marbury shared in a podcast, “Bronny James is a pro. You can’t go by stats with him right now because he’s only playing half the game.” The USC Trojans guard averaged only 19.4 minutes in his freshman year.

Read more: “I Don’t Want [Bronny] to Play With LeBron [James]”: Charles Barkley Gives Wild Advice to USC Star After Draft Declaration

Just like Baron Davis said, Marbury also believes Bronny’s ability to shoot, get to the rim, pass the ball, etc. is “Grade A”. However, he believes another year of college can help Bronny get more experience.

NBA is still a great option, and the 19-year-old can beat the odds just like his father. Time alone can tell us if these predictions will come true. What do you think? 

Read more: Is Bronny James Ready for 2024 Draft? Skeptical NBA Veteran Responds to Early Declaration