The son also rises: what if Bronny James is the safest pick in the NBA draft?

The 19-year-old has been derided as a nepo-baller. But growing up around one of the greatest players of all time could help him build a long career as a role player

The 2024 NBA draft is considered to be one of the weakest in recent memory, lacking any generational prospects or even a consensus No 1 overall pick when the names are called on Wednesday night. But it's generating plenty of buzz because of a 6ft 2in guard projected to get picked late in the second round: LeBron Raymone James Jr, or Bronny James.

Bronny is a relatively unproven prospect, with just 25 games of college experience. But his decision to leave the University of Southern California after one disappointing season, hire Rich Paul's Klutch Sports Group to represent him, and declare for the draft has been framed as some sort of nepotistic power arrangement that has more to do with his father than his ability. There is even speculation that a team may target Bronny in order to land LeBron, who could be an unrestricted free agent this summer and has spoken about wanting to play with his son, with the Los Angeles Lakers reportedly willing to explore the notion of adding Bronny James" in an attempt to re-sign his father.