Was it the right move for Bronny James to skip college after freshman season? The one question that still seems to follow the 20-year-old. The majority opinion when he first got drafted into the league was clear and against him. With time, however, the opinions seemed to have toned down now that he’s showing some promise in the G-League. But there still are many who believe college could’ve been a crucial breeding ground for James’ talent. And Rashad McCants is just one of them.
The discussion on Gil’s Arena started with Nick Young pitching that the G-League is better for Brony James than college. Disagreeing with this viewpoint completely, McCants also debunked the notion that the G-League helped James develop confidence and deal with the pressure away from the spotlight.
“Your confidence is not coming from the people. The confidence is coming in for your lack of play. You’re not playing enough basketball for you to build confidence. You build confidence in college by playing,” McCants said.
Young argued that Bronny James is not being given a chance, but Rashad seemed in no mood to buy this. He countered the opinion stating the chance for the 20-year-old would have been college. Four years of growth which he skipped upon. “So don’t give me the excuse now that you here, ‘I need to grow more and I need more time’. No, bro, that’s not how it works,” McCants doubled down on his take.
However, it’s not as if James has shown no growth during his time in the league. The Lakers rookie has been on a roll, especially during a three-game stretch where he averaged 23 points, six rebounds, five assists, and two steals while shooting an impressive 45.8 percent from three.
Jan 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) against the Los Angeles Clippers during the second half at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Over his last eight games, he’s hit double figures in seven, cementing his importance to South Bay. Even McCants acknowledged this growth but he argued, “if he was in college and he’s progressing at this rate, by the end of the season, he might take his team to the championship.”
Then came the big and important question? “How good is USC Men’s basketball?” And it got called trash on the show. Adding to this chain of thought was Brandon Jennings who believes he could not have got the kind of preparation from college that he’s getting from being around his dad, the arguable GOAT.
Gilbert Arenas, meanwhile, added to this chain of thought. “No matter what college did, you’re not ready. The NBA is a whole different breed… Why would he go to college if it all resets when he comes to the NBA,” he said. And with McCnats still not leaving his ground, arguing he’s not physically ready because of missing college, Arenas said, “He [Bronny] can get ready here.”
Which is better for player development: G League or college
The Arena debates Bronny James’ career path and development so far. pic.twitter.com/DbG4gows0I
— Gilbert Arenas (@GilsArenaShow) January 28, 2025
And there’s no doubt he has been getting ready.
A closer look at Bronny James’ growth in the G-League
The 20-year-old’s G-League journey didn’t get off to the dream start many might’ve hoped for. Imagine stepping onto the court with sold-out crowds watching your every dribble, every shot—waiting for you to either shine or stumble. And stumble, he did—at least at first.
His first two outings were tough, hitting just four of his 19-shot attempts. Scoring six points one night and four the next, he struggled to get comfortable in a league filled with seasoned professionals. But then came December 12 against the Valley Suns—a game that changed everything.
Bronny exploded for 30 points, proving he wasn’t just LeBron’s son but a legit scorer in his own right. Three-pointers, strong drives, smooth finishes—he showed it all. And just like that, something clicked. And that breakout wasn’t just a lucky night.
Over the next four games, Bronny James consistently hit double figures, building confidence with each performance. You could see him getting more comfortable, learning the pace, and trusting his skills.
Now, the Lakers are watching closely, hopeful he can follow in the footsteps of past South Bay talents like Jordan Clarkson, Alex Caruso, and Gary Payton II. Those guys used the G League as a launchpad—could James be next? His story is still being written, but one thing is clear: the growth is happening, and it’s only getting started.
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