USC freshman guard Bronny James announced on Instagram Friday that he will enter the 2024 NBA draft while preserving his college eligibility. Additionally, he revealed his decision to enter the transfer portal.
James, highly anticipated for his impact at USC after receiving McDonald’s All American honors in high school, faced setbacks during his freshman year due to a July cardiac arrest incident and subsequent procedure to address a congenital heart defect.
These health challenges sidelined him for five months and significantly affected his on-court performance.
Throughout the season, James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19 minutes per game.
USC’s Andy Enfield’s departure to SMU led to the hiring of Eric Musselman from Arkansas. Amidst these changes, Bronny James faces additional hurdles following his cardiac arrest and heart procedure.
Before participating in team workouts, draft combines, or being selected in the May draft, James must receive clearance from the NBA’s fitness-to-play panel due to his health history.
While he can still interview with teams, the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement mandates participation in the Chicago draft combine for players invited, including undergoing a physical examination.
James’s pre-draft strategy involves meeting with specific teams for workouts and interviews prior to the May 29 deadline, allowing him to assess potential developmental opportunities. Regardless of his draft position, he aims to determine if staying in the draft aligns with his long-term goals.
Agent Rich Paul, who is CEO of Klutch Sports and will represent James, told in March,
“I don’t value a young player getting into the lottery as much as I do getting him on the right team in the right developmental situation.”
Paul, who also represents Bronny’s father, LeBron James, plays a role in Bronny’s decisions. However, one aspect not influencing Bronny’s choice is the absence of a requirement to join the same team as his father.
“LeBron wants Bronny to be his own man,” Paul told in March.
Sources indicate that if Bronny James chooses to return to college and transfer, Duquesne is likely to be a top contender.
The university’s new coach, Dru Joyce, shares a significant connection with the James family, having been LeBron’s high school teammate and a longtime friend.
Joyce assumed the head coaching role following Keith Dambrot’s retirement, who led the team to an Atlantic 10 championship and an NCAA tournament appearance. Dambrot previously coached both James and Joyce at St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio.