Bronny James, rookie guard for the Los Angeles Lakers and son of NBA superstar LeBron James, delivered the most impressive performance of his young career in his first G League road game on Thursday evening.
The 20-year-old scored 30 points for the South Bay Lakers in a 106-100 loss to the Valley Suns. James shot 13 of 23 from the field, including 3 of 9 from beyond the arc, while adding three rebounds, two assists, one steal and a blocked shot in 25 minutes.
The breakout game was an important milestone for James, who struggled with limited opportunities and injuries in his rookie season. James was drafted 55th overall in June and has played in seven NBA games this year, averaging less than three minutes per game.
A career-high night for Bronny James! The @Lakers draftee made his road debut and scored a game-high 30 points on 57% shooting. Bronny, who had a previous career-high of 16 points, is now averaging 14 PPG, 3.5 RPG and 2.5 APG. 👏🙌 pic.twitter.com/5QnpeEZQTp
— NBA G League (@nbagleague) December 13, 2024
While going back and forth with the developmental G League, James has gradually worked his way into shape after missing several weeks with a bone bruise in his left heel. The injury, which affected the same leg that required knee surgery in high school, had slowed his progress. Entering Thursday’s game, James was averaging 8.7 points on just 29.4% shooting in three G League appearances.
On Thursday, his scoring more than tripled his previous G League career-high of 16 points, which he set last week against the San Diego Clippers.
The game also highlighted a shift in the Lakers’ approach to James’ development. Initially, the organization limited him to G League home games, a decision that drew criticism for being overly protective. That policy was reversed this week, allowing James to gain valuable experience along the way.
“That was the decision at the time,” a league source told Athletic. “More reps are good for James.”
James’ appearance comes as the Lakers themselves are struggling with injuries. His father, LeBron James, missed his second straight game on Friday due to foot soreness.