Bronny James has decided to remain in the NBA Draft, opting not to withdraw on the final day to do so on Wednesday.
James, of course, has his name working in his favor, given that he just happens to be the son of LeBron James. Forget the fact that Bronny averaged just 4.8 points as a freshman at USC. In fairness, he did suffer a heart scare just before the season — and by all accounts, looked good during drills at the NBA Combine.
ESPN currently has him listed as the 54th-best prospect entering the draft.
Bronny's agent, Rich Paul, told Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report that James will not accept a two-way contract, either. Only a standard rookie contract will do.
"Bronny's (draft) range is wide," Paul told ESPN. "He's a really good prospect who has a lot of room for growth. It only takes one team. I don't care where that team is — it can be No. 1 or 58 — (but) I do care about the plan, the development. The team's strategy, the opportunity and the financial commitment. That's why I'm not doing a two-way deal. Every team understands that."
ESPN draft insider Jonathan Givony reported that Bronny gave a strong showing at the combine to improve his draft stock.
"James, 19, tested as one of the fastest and most explosive athletes at the NBA draft combine in Chicago earlier this month, ranking second among 71 participants in two 3-point shooting drills," Givony wrote. "James also had 13 points in a combine team scrimmage."
The NBA Draft is scheduled for June 26-27, with the second round now being held on a second day. Reports suggest that Bronny will only work out for the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns ahead of the draft.
