Los Angeles Lakers rookie Bronny James delivered his breakout performance Friday night, showcasing his potential in a 132–74 preseason loss to the Golden State Warriors. In what was easily the best game of his young career, James got the start and made the most of his 35 minutes on the court, scoring 17 points on 7-of-17 shooting, along with grabbing four rebounds, swiping three steals, and registering a block.
With Lakers head coach JJ Redick opting to rest most of his key rotation players for the final preseason game at Chase Center, it provided a golden opportunity for James to step up. After struggling through the first five games of the preseason—averaging just four points and shooting a mere 20% from the field—this performance was a much-needed confidence booster for the 20-year-old.
Reflecting on his standout performance, James expressed relief and excitement. “It gave me a chance to be myself,” he told reporters after the game. “I feel like that’s where I’m the most comfortable, just going out there and playing my game. It was just a great feeling to go out there and not think as much as I do and just play.”
One of the highlights of the night came when James finished an emphatic alley-oop dunk off a fast-break lob from teammate Quincy Olivari. In another key moment, James drained his first three-pointer of the preseason, a notable feat after going 0-for-7 from beyond the arc in his previous outings. These moments not only electrified the crowd but also demonstrated his growing comfort and confidence on the floor.
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Despite the lopsided score, the game served as an important learning experience and confidence builder for James, who is carving his own path in the NBA under the shadow of his legendary father, LeBron James. While Bronny may see significant time with the South Bay Lakers, the Lakers’ G League affiliate, during the regular season as he continues to develop, Friday’s game offered a glimpse of his potential when given extended playing time.
“A little bit of confidence going into the season,” James said about his performance. “Even though I might not be in that rotation, I might not be playing, just going into practice, maybe G League games, with that confidence in myself to go out there and play my game, I feel like that’s the biggest part of tonight.”
With the regular season fast approaching, the Lakers are set to open their campaign against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night. As Bronny continues to develop his skills, he is likely to split time between the Lakers and the South Bay Lakers, who begin their season on November 9 against the Salt Lake City Stars.
James’ Friday night performance, however, was a strong reminder of what he’s capable of and why he’s considered one of the most exciting young prospects in the league.
For Bronny James, the road ahead may include ups and downs, but his performance against the Warriors has undoubtedly given him momentum and belief as he embarks on his NBA journey.