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[Saba Sports News] Austin Reaves recently shared his thoughts on Bronny James during an appearance on the ‘Jim And Base Show,’ expressing both excitement and empathy for the young player’s unique situation.
“I’m excited to play alongside him. He’s always going to get a bad rap for multiple reasons. He’s Bron’s son, so people are going to expect high-level things from him. You’ve just got to let the kid grow. Let him be his own self.”
“You can’t set a gold standard to bronze standards. It’s hard to live up to anybody in any sport. So if there’s anything I can do to help him, you know, like I said earlier, I don’t know if my dad was LeBron, I’d be listening to Austin Reaves, but this is super cool and I can’t wait to get to know him.”
Bronny James has faced considerable scrutiny due to the immense legacy of his father, LeBron James. However, Reaves highlights the importance of allowing Bronny to develop his own identity and career in basketball.
Despite the immense pressure and expectations, Bronny has shown resilience and potential. After a challenging start in the Summer League, he has begun to find his rhythm, particularly impressing with his defensive abilities.
Reaves, who took an unconventional path to NBA success, serves as a perfect example for Bronny. After going undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, Reaves earned a spot with the Lakers on a two-way contract. His hard work and development led to a regular spot in the lineup and a four-year, $54 million contract.
Reaves’s journey from undrafted player to key contributor for the Lakers underscores the value of perseverance and growth. His experience and guidance could be invaluable for Bronny as he navigates the early stages of his career. By supporting Bronny and emphasizing personal development over external expectations, Reaves exemplifies the nurturing environment the Lakers aim to provide for their young talent.