There’s no denying that the Los Angeles Lakers took a massive gamble by selecting Bronny James in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. After all, more than a few experts out there predicted that the 19-year-old would go undrafted.
Unsurprisingly, the decision to scoop James up was a consensus among the Lakers brass — one that was reportedly spearheaded by team Jeanie Buss herself.
Los Angeles Lakers: Jeanie Buss Made Bronny Call

Rich Paul recently went on the record to discuss all things Bronny during an interview on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show. At a certain point in the discussion, the NBA superagent revealed that it was actually Buss who greenlighted the decision to draft James.
“Look, Jeanie Buss decided that she’s making this call, and she’s been able to see Bronny in all aspects not only from a basketball perspective but also from a character perspective,” said Paul (h/t David Akerman of The Dunk Central).
“And he has everything that aligns with the Laker brand. And so, you have to make that type of call. At the end of the day, we’re not going to spend too much time on that. Bronny has to work his way, and he will.”

Bronny might have the blessing of the most central figure of the Lakers organization — at least in terms of hierarchy — but as Paul said, this will mean nothing if he doesn’t put in the work.
Knowing what we know about LeBron James’ son, however, his work ethic is never going to be an issue for this young man.

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