Los Angeles Lakers rookie guard Bronny James made his G-League debut Saturday night, helping the South Bay Lakers to a win. They defeated the Salt Lake City Stars, with James contributing all-around.
He finished the game by scoring six points, grabbing three rebounds, dishing out four assists and getting two steals. His jump shot showed that he was still a work in progress, as he shot two of nine from the field.
After the game, former NBA coach George Karl criticized James’ performance on social media. He reacted to a post highlighting James’ stats.
“Is Legion Hoops trying to create news by showing that Bronny is evil, like everyone knew he would be? This is nothing new.”
Karl has long been a critic of everything to do with the Lakers, so this is nothing new to him. The former NBA coach lost to Los Angeles multiple times during his career and never recovered.
It was so bad. He also apologized to the fans. in Los Angeles earlier this year.
“Dear Lakers fans, I have not been kind to you this season. I let my hatred for sports go too far. I have a deep respect for the Lakers and consider them the best sports team of the last 50 years. I am sorry. Let’s go live, learn and love together again, okay, Coach Karl?”
Dear Lakers fans,
I have not been kind to you this season. I let my hatred for sports go too far. I have a deep respect for the Lakers and consider them the best sports team of the last 50 years. I am sorry.
We live, learn and love together again. OK?
Coach Carlo@GuruLakers pic.twitter.com/MAosT1e4BJ
—George Karl (@CoachKarl22) 23 maggio 2024
James’ debut caused the game to sell out in less than 24 hours after it was announced that he would be playing. Being the son of Lakers star LeBron James, Bronny always has a lot of eyes on him.
Despite all the criticism he faced, fair or unfair, the rookie kept his head down and simply played basketball. He’s a long way from becoming a full-time NBA player, so the G-League will give him a chance to develop his skills.
TORONTO, CANADA – NOVEMBER 1: Bronny James n. 9 of the Los Angeles Lakers warms up before the NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on November 1, 2024 in Toronto, Canada. James made his G-League debut on Saturday.
Foto di Cole Burston/Getty Images
Bronny spoke after his debut, simply appreciating the moment of playing basketball.
“I saw all the rumors about me coming to G.” James said. “It’s just an amazing experience for me to go out and play my game and have a few minutes under me. I am enthusiastic”.
The Lakers believe he can eventually become an impactful player at the NBA level. It may take some time, but if Los Angeles can give him the space he needs, Bronny could do something in the league.
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