USC's Bronny James declares for NBA draft and enters transfer portal after 1 season
Bronny James will enter the NBA draft after one season at Southern California that was shortened by his recovery from cardiac arrest
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Bronny James will enter the NBA draft after one season at Southern California that was shortened by his recovery from cardiac arrest.
The 19-year-old son of LeBron James announced Friday on his Instagram account that he also plans to retain his college eligibility and will enter the transfer portal.
“I've had a year with some ups and downs but all added to growth for me as a man, student and athlete,” James wrote.
James posted his decision hours before USC was set to introduce Eric Musselman as its new coach. He replaces Andy Enfield, who left on Monday to become coach at SMU.
“Bronny is his own man,” the elder James said this week. “He has some tough decisions to make. When he's ready to make those decisions, he'll let us all know. But as his family, we're going to support whatever he does.”
James averaged 4.8 points and 2.8 rebounds while starting six of 25 games for the Trojans. He shot 37% from the field, 27% from 3-point range and 68% from the free throw line.
The elder James, his wife and their 9-year-old daughter were frequent courtside spectators at the Galen Center this season.
The 39-year-old James has been vocal about wanting to play with his son in the NBA.
Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, who represents father and son, said recently that he doesn'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.”
James, a 6-foot-4 combo guard, didn't make his college debut until Dec. 10. Afterward, James appeared in front of the media for less than a minute to thank the doctors, athletic trainers and support system that helped him return to play.
Despite numerous requests, James never spoke to reporters during the season.
He suffered cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout at the Galen Center. He was found to have a congenital heart defect that was treatable.
___
AP March Madness bracket: https://apnews.com/hub/ncaa-mens-bracket and coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness