Bronny James, the son of NBA legend LeBron James, has made waves in the basketball world even before stepping onto an NBA court. After being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, expectations were high for the 20-year-old rookie. However, as part of his development in his inaugural season, Bronny is expected to spend some time with the South Bay Lakers, the Los Angeles Lakers’ NBA G League affiliate. This decision comes as part of the Lakers’ long-term plan to help Bronny refine his skills, gain valuable game experience, and adjust to the demands of professional basketball. Here, we dive into the implications of Bronny James’ involvement with the South Bay Lakers during the 2024-25 season.

NBA G League Overview

The NBA G League serves as the official minor league for the NBA, where players, coaches, officials, and staffers can hone their skills before being called up to the big league. Initially known as the NBA D-League, it was rebranded as the NBA G League in the 2017-18 season when Gatorade became the title sponsor. The G League not only provides players with a platform to develop but also serves as a testing ground for new rules and strategies to potentially implement in the NBA.

In the 2024-25 season, the G League consists of 31 teams, with 30 teams affiliated with NBA franchises. One such team is the South Bay Lakers, based in El Segundo, California. This proximity to the Lakers’ headquarters allows Bronny James to remain fully integrated with his NBA team while also benefiting from the competitive environment of the G League. The South Bay Lakers provide an ideal setting for Bronny to continue his growth as a player while still maintaining a connection to the Lakers’ main roster.

Bronny James’ Rookie Season with the Los Angeles Lakers

As a rookie, Bronny James is stepping into a high-pressure situation with the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Being the son of LeBron James brings its own set of expectations, but Bronny is prepared for the challenge. The Lakers selected him in the late second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, signaling the team’s commitment to developing his talent over time.

Bronny’s rookie season will not be all about starring in the spotlight right away. The Lakers are expected to assign him to the South Bay Lakers for part of the season. This is widespread practice for teams looking to give their younger players more playing time and developmental opportunities, especially when they are on playoff-contending teams like the Lakers. Bronny’s G League stint will allow him to continue refining his skills, particularly his shooting, ball-handling, and defense, while adjusting to the professional level of play.

How Bronny James’ Contract Affects His Development

Bronny James signed a four-year, $7.9 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, a deal that is fully guaranteed through the 2025-26 season. The contract also includes a partial guarantee for the third year and a team option for the fourth year. For the 2024-25 season, Bronny will earn a salary of $1,157,153, while his salary will rise to $1,955,377 in the following season. As a 20-year-old rookie, this contract provides Bronny with a solid financial foundation while ensuring his growth within the organization.

Under the terms of the NBA Collective Bargaining Agreement, a rookie with less than three years of NBA service, like Bronny, can be assigned to the G League without restriction. This gives the Lakers the flexibility to send him back and forth between the NBA and G League, where he will compete alongside both Lakers players on two-way contracts and others on standard G League contracts. This arrangement maximizes Bronny’s exposure to distinct levels of competition, accelerating his development while maintaining his connection to the main roster.

South Bay Lakers Schedule and Bronny’s Participation

The 2024-25 G League season is officially underway, with the South Bay Lakers opening their campaign on November 9 against the Salt Lake City Stars, the affiliate team of the Utah Jazz. Over the following month, the South Bay Lakers will play five additional games, including matchups with teams such as the Santa Cruz Warriors, Stockton Kings, and the San Diego Clippers. The G League schedule is packed with games that will give Bronny the opportunity to highlight his abilities on a consistent basis, allowing him to gain critical experience.

Notably, the South Bay Lakers’ location in El Segundo ensures that Bronny’s development with the G League team remains closely tied to his NBA commitments. As the Lakers’ primary G League affiliate, South Bay allows Bronny to remain in a familiar environment while honing his skills in a professional setting. The proximity also means that when Bronny is called up to the main roster, his transition can be seamless, making him ready for action at a moment’s notice.

Nov. 9: South Bay Lakers vs. Salt Lake City Stars (Jazz) – 8 p.m. ET

Nov. 15: At Santa Cruz Warriors (Warriors) – 10 p.m. ET

Nov. 17: South Bay Lakers vs. Stockton Kings (Kings) – 8 p.m. ET

Nov. 20: At San Diego Clippers (Clippers) – 10 p.m. ET

Nov. 24: South Bay Lakers vs. Stockton Kings (Kings) – 8 p.m. ET

These early-season matchups will be important for Bronny as he adjusts to the G League level. Playing in high-intensity games against a variety of opponents will help him build confidence and gain invaluable experience.

The Impact of Bronny James in the South Bay Lakers

Bronny James has already shown flashes of his potential on the court. Known for his high basketball IQ, sharp shooting, and ability to play within a team structure, Bronny’s presence on the South Bay Lakers will have a significant impact. Not only will he be able to learn from established G League veterans, but he will also get the chance to compete against players trying to prove themselves on the NBA stage.

While his time in the G League might not be filled with highlight-reel moments like his father’s career, it will be a critical developmental stage for Bronny. Playing alongside other young prospects and NBA-caliber players will accelerate his growth, preparing him for the eventual transition to the Lakers’ main roster.

G League Games to Watch

With the South Bay Lakers making their push for the playoffs, the G League games featuring Bronny James are sure to be of interest. For fans looking to place bets on the GOAT Lebron James Sr, NBA picks for tonight games should be interesting, especially key matchups. As “Bronny” role with the South Bay Lakers increases, his development could significantly influence the gamming landscape for G League games, especially as the season progresses. Some people say that he will never fulfill his father’s legacy but with every game “Bronny” continues to shine with his skillset and with this professionalism. 

Outlook

Looking ahead, Bronny’s future with the Lakers is bright. His four-year contract, with a guaranteed salary through the 2025-26 season, ensures that the Lakers have time to develop him into a key contributor. The fact that the Lakers have already invested in his development through the G League speaks to their commitment to nurturing his growth over the next several years. As Bronny continues to refine his skills in the G League, his eventual move to the Lakers’ starting lineup seems inevitable, especially if he continues to progress at the current rate.

Conclusion: Bronny James’ Path to NBA Stardom

Bronny James’ journey through the NBA G League with the South Bay Lakers will be a pivotal part of his path to NBA stardom. While it is early in his career, his involvement with the South Bay Lakers provides him with the foundation he needs to make a lasting impact in the NBA. His experience in the G League will serve him well as he prepares for the big league, and as time progresses, Bronny’s impact will undoubtedly be felt both in the G League and on the NBA court. His development is one of the most closely followed stories in basketball today, and fans and analysts alike are eager to see where his journey takes him.