USC Basketball: Why Expert Believes Bronny James Could Make 2024 NBA Lottery

He could also be a low first round pick.

Incoming USC Trojans freshman shooting guard LeBron "Bronny" James Jr., long projected to be a late first round draft selection or even an early second rounder, has a chance at being selected among the top ten picks in next year's draft, opines Jonathan Givony of ESPN.

The 6'3" guard, son of Los Angeles Lakers All-NBA small forward LeBron James, wrapped up his high school career in 2022-23 at Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth.

“James has earned his spot in lottery conversations with the significant jump he has made… developing into arguably the best perimeter defender in his high school class while making strides in his perimeter shooting and playmaking ability,” Givony writes. “James has grown, filled out his frame, found another gear with his explosiveness, and become an absolute terror off the ball defensively thanks to his outstanding intensity and feel for the game.”

Bronny's defense and court sense have frequently been highlighted as two of his most NBA-translatable skills. Though Givony notes he improved as a shooter, that is generally considered to be the big question mark in his game. He's undersized for his more natural position as a two guard, but despite being a solid passer with good feel, may not be lead guard material. It will be fascinating to see how he develops during at least a year of seasoning under Andy Enfield's tutelage.