Advice From a Former No. 1 Pick to Bronny James

The Los Angeles Lakers began their 2025 preseason on Friday, and one of the most talked-about names was Bronny James. LeBron’s eldest son had a modest performance in his debut and became the target of criticism on social media. However, he also received some direct and constructive advice from a former No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft.

Kwame Brown Sends a Clear Message to Bronny James

Through his YouTube channel Bust Life, Kwame Brown analyzed Bronny’s performance. After initially criticizing his development, Brown shifted to a more positive tone, offering guidance on how the young guard could improve. He told Bronny that he has full support from his coaching staff and from his father, and that he simply needs to play basketball without overthinking it. 

Brown advised him to take open shots, focus on the ones he will use in games, attack the basket to build rhythm, and understand that easy layups can boost confidence. He added that he would not call him a bad player, but emphasized that he must improve quickly because he occupies a roster spot that could have gone to someone else, urging him to keep working hard on his game.

The former player also mentioned that Bronny should focus on making his teammates better and improving his work ethic. He recommended that he take advantage of every practice and shooting session to polish his style and build confidence with the ball.

Bronny’s First Preseason Games

In his preseason debut against the Phoenix Suns on Friday, Bronny came off the bench for 24 minutes and recorded eight points, five rebounds, and two assists. However, he struggled with his shooting, going 1-for-12 from the field and 1-for-8 from three-point range, while making five of six free throws in a 103-81 loss.

Two days later, the Lakers faced the Golden State Warriors. Bronny played 23 minutes, finishing with five points, three rebounds, three assists, one steal, one block, and five turnovers in a 111-103 defeat.

Despite his poor shooting, he delivered one of the highlight plays of the night: a spectacular put-back dunk in the fourth quarter that made LeBron James rise from the bench in excitement. LeBron (glute injury), Luka Doncic (rest after EuroBasket), and Austin Reaves (undisclosed reasons) did not play in that game.

Birthday and New Goals

On October 6, Bronny celebrated his 21st birthday, receiving messages of support on social media despite the criticism. His NBA career is still in its early stages, though he has shown promise in the G League. His next goal is to earn a stable role in JJ Redick’s rotation with the Lakers.