Apr 5, 2024 - Sports

Bronny James declares for NBA draft while keeping options open

Sareen Habeshian

Bronny James of the USC Trojans on March 14 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo: David Becker/Getty Images

Bronny James, the son of NBA basketball legend LeBron James, announced on Friday that he's entering the NBA draft and the NCAA transfer portal.

The big picture: The 19-year-old, who plays for the University of Southern California, is keeping his options open after his return to the court late last year following his cardiac arrest during practice in July.

"I've had a year with some ups and downs but all added to growth for me as a man, student and athlete," Bronny James wrote when making the announcement on social media.

Zoom in: The young James is maintaining his college eligibility, meaning if he doesn't get picked in the NBA draft, he can potentially join another college team through the NCAA transfer portal.

Bronny James averaged 4.8 points per game this past season, spending much of it coming off the bench.

Between the lines: His Laker star father has long signaled he wants to play on an NBA team with his son before retiring from the game, and Lebron's contract allows him the option to sign with another team next season.

That could potentially make Bronny James a hot pick in the NBA draft.
If the dream comes true, the pair would be the first father-son duo playing together on an NBA team.

Go deeper: Basketball star Bronny James cleared to play after cardiac arrest

Add Axios on Google

Bronny James declares for NBA draft while keeping options open

What to read next