Bronny James may have the most famous last name in basketball — but as Rich Paul reminds us, that doesn’t guarantee anything.
On a recent episode of Haynes Briefs, the Klutch Sports CEO and longtime agent to LeBron James offered a candid perspective on Bronny’s challenging rookie season, calling attention to the fragile nature of NBA careers and the mental toll on young players trying to earn their spot.
“A younger player who’s trying to fight for their life… There’s nothing guaranteed in our league — no matter what pick you were or what round you went in.”
The Weight of Expectations
Bronny, just 19, appeared in only 27 NBA games, averaging 6.7 minutes per contest under rookie head coach JJ Redick. Despite the massive spotlight, his impact on the floor was limited — and the mental strain became real.
“I was under a lot of pressure,” Bronny admitted to Fox Sports.
“It was getting to me a little bit.”
G League Grind, Real Results
Rather than rush Bronny into full-time NBA duties, Paul encouraged a stint with the South Bay Lakers in the G League — and it paid off. In 11 games, Bronny averaged:
- 21.9 PTS
- 5.2 REB
- 5.4 AST
- 44% FG / 38% 3PT
It was a reminder that development takes time — and the G League can be a valuable proving ground, especially for young prospects carrying the burden of media hype and family legacy.
“These kids work their whole lives to get here. And if they don’t stay long, they don’t get enough time to prove themselves,” Paul added.
No Special Treatment — Just Patience
Paul was clear: this isn’t about protecting LeBron’s son — it’s about protecting young players’ futures in a league where patience is rare.
“You just never want those things [outside pressure] to be the reason why a team doesn’t bring you back.”
With the Lakers’ season ending in disappointment and LeBron’s own future uncertain, Bronny is forging his own path — one workout, one film session, one game at a time.
And if Rich Paul’s comments made one thing clear, it’s this: Bronny’s story is still being written — and he’s earning every page.
