Bronny James’ NBA debut is perhaps the most anticipated of all the rookies in the class of 2024.
Between the weaker draft overall and James’ popularity, fans are excited to see the 19-year-old play with his father, LeBron James. However, his rookie season in the NBA is likely to be short.
As with many second-round draft picks, they will likely spend some time in the G League to start their careers. James is in a unique situation considering his prominence. He also signed a four-year, $7.9 million guaranteed contract. It’s rare for a second-rounder to sign a contract like that, especially since the Lakers selected him 55th overall. Still, James will at least make his debut with Los Angeles to start the season.
Will he also play in the G League? Here’s what we can expect from James’ rookie season with the Lakers.
Will Bronny James play in the G League?
James is expected to play most of his rookie year for the South Bay Lakers in the G League. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski said on SportsCenter.
The rookie will begin his NBA season and will likely debut alongside his father in the first week of play. Once his time comes, James will spend most of his time developing in the G League.
It’s fairly common for players selected in the second round of the draft to play the majority of their rookie season in the G League. Often, a player selected in the second round may not step onto the NBA court in his first year as a professional.
James is a unique case, but he will follow the traditional path to earn his place in the NBA once he makes his NBA debut. There is no consensus on when scouts believe James will become a full-time NBA player.
It’s difficult to project his career. The 19-year-old had a promising high school career before suffering cardiac arrest before his freshman season at USC. That delayed his NCAA debut and ultimately limited his ability in the 25 games he played in.
The G League will give James the opportunity to make that jump and build on his strong showing at the NBA Draft Combine. While he is considered a project, he could surprise the world and be NBA-ready this season.
His professional outlook depends entirely on his performance in the G League.
Bronny James contract details
James signed a four-year, $7.9 million contract with the Lakers. He will earn $1.2 million in his rookie season, according to Bobby Marks of ESPNThe fourth year is a team option and is worth nearly $2.5 million.
| Season | Salary |
| 2024-25 | $1,157,143 |
| 2025-26 | $1,955,377 |
| 2026-27 | $2,296,271 |
| 2027-28 | $2,486,995 (up to) |
Bronny James College Statistics
- 4.8 points per game
- 2.8 rebounds per game
- 2.1 assists per game
- 0.8 steals per game
- 0.2 blocks per game
- 1.1 turnovers per game
- 36.6 percent field goals
- 26.7 percent on three-point shots
- 67.6 percent in free throws
- 19.3 minutes per game
- 25 games played
