The Los Angeles Lakers sent a loud message to the internet haters of Bronny James.
Many NBA opinion-havers think the Lakers only drafted Bronny at the request of his father, LeBron James.
New Lakers frontman J.J. Redick shot down those notions at the younger James’ introductory press conference.
“Rob and I did not give Bronny anything,” Redick said Tuesday, according to The Los Angeles Times. “Bronny has earned this. … Bronny has earned this through hard work.”
Bronny did agree, however, that his father’s legendary presence did amplify the pressure to perform under the bright lights.
“For sure, amplified amount of pressure,” Bronny said, again according to The Times. “I’ve already seen it on social media and stuff, and the internet and stuff and talking about that I might not deserve an opportunity. But I’ve been dealing with stuff like this my whole life. So it’s nothing different, but it’s more amplified, for sure. But I’ll get through it.”
The Lakers also reminded James that he’s an unfinished product with high potential to grow.
“Rob has told me that there’s a great development system here, so I just want to come in and get my work in and get better every day,” Bronny said. “I never really had a thought of me going to play with my dad. But that’s always there to take part of. But that wasn’t the main focus of mine.”
Only time will tell how deft the pick ultimately proves.
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