USC Basketball: NBA Draft Expert Impressed Despite Bronny James’ Modest Start

Is he an NBA prospect this year?

For a new ESPN piece co-written with Jeremy Woo, NBA draft expert Jonathan Givony took stock of USC Trojans freshman guard Bronny James, following his college debut, an 84-79 upset loss to the Long Beach State 49ers last Sunday.

The 6'3" combo guard played for 16 minutes, and most of his impact was felt on the defensive end, where he was a swarming, hyper-athletic presence (there were certainly shadows of his famous father, Los Angeles Lakers superstar forward LeBron James, in his game, notably in a nasty come-from-behind block). He scored four points, grabbed three boards, notched two steals, dished out two dimes, and logged the aforementioned block.

Even after that modest first game, Givony already was sold on the NBA upside of the former four-star recruit out of Sierra Canyon School. 

"Overall he looked far ahead of expectations as a freshman playing his first college basketball game," Givony wrote. " James showed some of he ways he'll be able to help USC with his defense, spot shooting and unselfishness -- all areas the team has struggled with this season."

Givony did have some constructive criticism for USC's young bench guard, however.

"Offensively, James is much more of a work in progress. He looked quite passive," Givony observed. "Considering how long it has been since his last competitive game more than eight months ago, it's understandable to an extent, but James showed similar traits in high school."

In a lopsided 91-75 loss to the Auburn Tigers today, James scored five points and pulled down two boards off the bench, while again providing stellar perimeter defense.

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