Report: Warriors didn’t draft Bronny to ‘respect’ LeBron’s wishes originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
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The Warriors seem to have done a favor for their Southern California counterparts during the 2024 NBA Draft.
Golden State’s last selection in the draft occurred at No. 52, just three picks before the Lakers concluded their choices. With LeBron James’ son, Bronny James, still available when the Warriors were making their selection, general manager Mike Dunleavy and the front office chose to pass on the 19-year-old guard to ”honor the wishes” of LeBron James, as reported by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne.
While Shelburne noted that the Warriors appreciated Bronny’s skill set and had him listed on their draft board, they ultimately decided to go in a different direction by selecting 7-foot center Quinten Post.
In a historic moment, the Lakers drafted Bronny, making it the first occasion when both a father and son are in the league simultaneously.
“It means the world to [LeBron],” said Lakers star center Anthony Davis after training camp this week. “I mean, no one has ever had the chance to play with their son. It brings a different level of joy and appreciation. This is something unprecedented.”
Bronny joins the league post a challenging freshman season at USC. Before his college journey commenced, Bronny experienced a cardiac arrest during a practice session in July 2023 at USC’s Galen Center. Following his hospitalization, he was eventually diagnosed with a congenital heart defect, which was likely responsible for the incident.
The 6-foot-2, 210-pound guard averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists over 25 games, with 19.4 minutes of playtime per contest. He recorded shooting percentages of 36.6 from the field, 26.7 from beyond the arc (60 attempts), and 67.6 from the free-throw line (34 attempts).
Although there are still numerous questions regarding his potential in the NBA, seeing the James father-son duo on the court together during the 2024-25 season will undeniably be a remarkable sight—and for that, the Warriors can take some credit.
Warriors Choose Not to Draft Bronny James to Honor LeBron’s Wishes
The Context Behind the Decision
The Golden State Warriors recently made headlines when they opted not to draft Bronny James, son of NBA superstar LeBron James. This decision has stirred conversations among fans and analysts regarding the implications of such a choice on both Bronny’s career and the Warriors’ future. The franchise reportedly admired Bronny’s skills and had him on their draft board; however, they ultimately chose a different path to respect LeBron’s preferences [[1](https://hoopshype.com/2024/10/04/warriors-were-interested-in-bronny-james/)].
Understanding LeBron’s Position
LeBron James has made it clear that he wishes for his son to carve out his own identity in the basketball world. As a father and a mentor, LeBron has emphasized the importance of Bronny not being overshadowed by his legacy. This perspective likely influenced the Warriors’ decision, as they weighed the implications of drafting Bronny against LeBron’s wishes.
### LeBron’s Influence on the Draft
– **Legacy Considerations**: LeBron’s legacy and expectations have always been monumental. Drafting Bronny could have brought additional media scrutiny and pressure.
– **Father-Son Dynamics**: LeBron’s desire for Bronny to develop independently may have been a crucial factor for the Warriors.
Warriors’ Draft Strategy
The Warriors have a history of making strategic decisions based on both performance metrics and team chemistry. Choosing to bypass Bronny James demonstrates a calculated approach to building their roster.
### Key Factors in Their Decision
– **Current Roster Needs**: The Warriors may have identified other prospects who fit their immediate team requirements better than Bronny.
– **Long-Term Vision**: Building for future championships often requires tough decisions, particularly when balancing young talent against seasoned players.
The Reaction from Fans and Analysts
The decision not to draft Bronny has resulted in a mixed bag of reactions from the basketball community.
#### Positive Feedback
– **Respect for Family Values**: Many fans appreciate the Warriors’ decision as a nod to family values and respecting LeBron’s wishes.
– **Avoiding Pressure**: Analysts suggest that this could spare Bronny the additional pressure of being a ”LeBron 2.0″ in his first years in the league.
#### Criticism
– **Missed Opportunity**: Some critics argue that Bronny’s potential could have been an asset for the Warriors in their quest for another championship.
– **Marketing Potential**: Bronny’s marketability could have brought additional revenue and fan engagement.
Benefits of External Support for Bronny James
Even though Bronny was not drafted by the Warriors, there are numerous benefits associated with him receiving external support to thrive in his career.
– **Development Opportunities**: Training with professional athletes and coaches enhances skills and basketball IQ.
– **Networking**: Connecting with teams and players across the league can foster relationships that benefit his career trajectory.
#### Practical Tips for Young Players
1. **Embrace Your Identity**: Young players should focus on developing their unique skills rather than trying to mimic family legacies.
2. **Seek Mentorship**: Engaging with experienced players can provide guidance and insights that are invaluable at the start of a career.
3. **Stay Grounded**: Balancing personal ambitions with public expectations is crucial.
Future Prospects for Bronny James
As Bronny looks ahead, his journey in the basketball world remains bright, with many avenues available to him outside of the Warriors’ decision.
### Potential Pathways
– **Playing College Basketball**: A collegiate career can provide Bronny with the platform to showcase his talent.
– **International Opportunities**: Exploring overseas leagues could also offer valuable playing experience while developing his game.
Case Studies: Successful Players Who Faced Similar Challenges
1. **Stephen Curry**: Initially overlooked in the draft, he developed into a two-time MVP and is now considered one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
2. **Kawhi Leonard**: Drafted later than expected, he used this as motivation to work hard and ultimately became a two-time NBA champion.
### Lessons Learned from Their Journeys
- **Resilience and Hard Work**: Overcoming initial setbacks can lead to unprecedented success.
– **Individual Growth**: Every player’s journey is unique; carving one’s path is essential.
Conclusion
The Golden State Warriors’ decision not to draft Bronny James may have been guided by respect for LeBron’s wishes and a strategic vision for their team’s future. As Bronny embarks on his career, there are various paths he can take to establish himself in the world of basketball, independent of his father’s legacy. The support from the community, combined with his determination and skill development, will play a crucial role in shaping his journey ahead.
