Bronnie James, a promising Lakers prospect, is once again making headlines in the NBA Summer League for the second consecutive year. In the 2024 Summer League, Bronnie was a key player, and his inclusion in the 2025 Summer League signals high expectations. The Lakers faced off against the Mavericks, featuring Bronnie guarding 2025 draft pick Cooper Flagg. Bronnie showcased significant defensive improvements by limiting Flagg to just 10 points, especially impressive since Flagg scored 31 in his next game.
Former NBA player Jeff Teague expressed some doubts about Bronnie’s confidence, but Dwyane Wade strongly disagrees. Wade, a former Miami Heat teammate of LeBron James, praised Bronnie’s growing confidence and skill set on his podcast, noting that the 2024 second-round pick is starting to shine. He described Bronnie as having a strong "bag" of moves, highlighting his defensive intensity and offensive contributions. Wade recalled Bronnie’s impressive performances in the G League, including highlight dunks, and how his summer league debut demonstrated his freedom and comfort on the court.
Despite Wade’s enthusiasm for Bronnie, he remains cautious about rushing his development or forcing him into a specific role with the Lakers in the 2025-26 season. He emphasized the importance of allowing Bronnie to develop naturally without undue pressure to become a rotation player immediately. Wade applauds the efforts of Bronnie’s support system, including his agent Rich Paul and his father, for managing his progression wisely. According to Wade, the key is for Bronnie to continue growing at his own pace and prove his skills, which is already happening visibly.
Wade summarized his thoughts by saying the most inspiring aspect is witnessing Bronnie’s journey unfold in front of the world, as he builds confidence and self-assurance.
Fan Take: This update on Bronnie James is thrilling for basketball fans as it highlights the emergence of the next generation of talent with deep roots in NBA legacy. Watching Bronnie develop under the watchful eyes of seasoned pros like Dwyane Wade adds excitement and hope for the sport’s future, signaling a promising new star on the horizon.
