Bronny James has until Wednesday night to make a decision about his collegiate future, but the 19-year-old has already determined his path.
According to Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports and James’ agent, Bronny will be giving up his remaining eligibility in college. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Jonathan Givony reported on Wednesday morning that Paul confirmed, “He’s staying in the draft.”
Additionally, Paul emphasized that Bronny will not be entering into a two-way contract that would have him split time between the G-League and the NBA next season. “He’s a strong prospect with significant potential for development,” Paul explained to ESPN. “It only takes one team to see that potential. It doesn’t matter if it’s the first pick or the 58th, what matters is the team’s development plan and their commitment to him. That’s why we’re not considering a two-way deal. Every team is aware of this.”
During his single season at USC, James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists over 19.4 minutes per game. His debut was delayed until mid-December following a cardiac arrest in the offseason, which was linked to a congenital heart defect for which he underwent surgery and has been fully cleared by medical professionals.
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Speculation has been rife about the Los Angeles Lakers drafting Bronny, enabling him to join his father, LeBron James. However, Paul has insisted that the Lakers should evaluate Bronny as they would any other prospect, amidst hints that LeBron will not interfere in the draft process.
Currently, the Lakers lead the betting odds as the most likely team to draft Bronny:
| Team | Odds |
|---|---|
| Lakers | +155 |
| Suns | +1200 |
| Jazz | +1200 |
| Cavs | +1500 |
| Heat | +1500 |
| Thunder | +2000 |
| Warriors | +2500 |
| Clippers | +2500 |
| Knicks | +2500 |
| 76ers | +2500 |
Leading up to the NBA Draft on June 26, more than ten teams have invited Bronny for workouts, although he plans to meet with only two of them.
