Heavy is the head that wears the crown. The weight of LeBron James’ legacy is not easy to bear — just ask Bronny. He has persevered in the G-League, finding his rhythm, yet still has to field accusations of nepotism. Being the son of the King would do that to you. LeBron, however, disagrees with the notion. The Lakers star has seen his son fall, and rise again, and he wants the world to appreciate his determination. Meanwhile, Bryce seems to not pay attention to the negative claims. Even with constant comparisons to his brother and his father, he stays true to himself. The young Sierra Canyon guard is quietly carving his path to success, and we’re all for it.
It was a stressful day for the James family, filled with confrontation and drama aplenty. LeBron James confronted columnist Stephen A. Smith courtside at one of his games, and for good reason too! Smith had some choice words for his son, and LeBron, as a father, could not stand idle. He made his displeasure known, and it was a big deal for the media. However, through the stress that enveloped this day, there was also a silver lining for the family! Bryce James has got next. His agenda for the day? Get even with Santa Barbara. The Dons embarrassed the Trailblazers in late December, and they could not wait for a rematch. And well, their thirty-three point blow out speaks for itself.
Ballislife posted the highlights on their Instagram account with the post reading “Sierra got their revenge!” But it was a comment by Bryce that really stood out. He had been receiving a lot of flak for his ordinary performances, but he never let it get to him. The James’ family is big on mentality, and it seems like their youngest member is in the know! He celebrated his victory by commenting “GBG” or ‘Get Back Gang’ under the post.
In reality, the ‘Get Back’ mentality is a trademark for LeBron James and his entire family. It was this very mentality that allowed his dad to stage the most impressive 3-1 comeback in NBA Finals history. The same mentality got Bronny back to his feet after his heart issues, and it was the same mentality that LeBron’s mom showed as a single mother before her son made it big. Whenever the cards have been stacked against the James family, they’ve shown why they’re a part of the ‘GBG.’
Bryce will need to continue with this mentality, however, as he has a long road ahead of him. He will run into nay-sayers, and he will have to prove them wrong. The six-foot-six guard from Sierra Canyon has committed to the University of Arizona for the upcoming college season, and will likely stay there as he develops. Speaking of development, Bryce might want to tap into the knowledge bank of his elder brother, who has gone through everything he has and more!
What can Bryce James learn from his older brother?
People sometimes forget how good of a prospect Bronny really was. The six-foot-three point guard, before his heart issues, was a top 10 player in his draft class according to On3! Not to mention, he averaged about 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals per game for the Trailblazers. His outside shooting and pesky defense made him a fabulous 3&D player. Bryce can stand to learn a thing or two from big bro!
However, the narratives have always pitted the two against each other. Critics of Bronny say that Bryce is a superior prospect. He’s taller, he has better shooting rhythm, and he has a larger wingspan. On the flip side, people say that Bronny is more athletic and has elite basketball IQ and vision.
Mar 27, 2023; Houston, TX, USA; McDonald’s All American West guard Bronny James (6) and Bryce Maximus James (right) walk on the court during the Powerade Jam Fest at Delmar Athletic Complex. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports
In reality, it’s not really a competition. The two brothers are students of the game, and their paths have been completely different. Bronny James, in high school, was a genuine five star prospect. He shot lights out during the McDonald’s All-American game and finished as one of the leading point getters. Even though he didn’t grow into a six-eight frame like his dad, Bronny sure was just as athletic, if not more!
Bryce, on the other hand, didn’t even make the McDonald’s game. He has always been looked at as more of a raw prospect. The size he possesses, as well as the shooting form, make up for a lot of detractors in his game. However, his game is in need of a lot of development, which is also a big reason behind committing to Arizona. Tommy Lloyd is known to be patient, and that’s exactly what the six-foot-six guard needs.
And as for who is better? It’s safe to say that it doesn’t matter. Both players are in different stages of their careers, with Bronny balling out in the G-League right now. Bryce has the spark in him too, but he needs the right guidance to succeed. If he manages to pick up on the defensive IQ of his older brother, and consolidates his shooting a little more, Bryce James can be a genuine hooper in the NBA.
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