Bronny James Medically Cleared for NBA Participation
An individual familiar with the situation informed The Associated Press on Monday that Bronny James, son of NBA player LeBron James from the Los Angeles Lakers, has received medical approval to compete in the league and is likely to take part in the draft combine this week.
The teams were informed of the approval in a memo that was sent Monday morning, as reported by a source who spoke to the AP anonymously since the league did not disclose any information publicly. Every player participating in the draft combine in Chicago is required to undergo medical examinations.
The NBA’s decision was first reported by ESPN. It was probably anticipated that Bronny James would receive clearance, considering he participated in the last 25 games for Southern California in his freshman season. He experienced a heart attack while practicing in July 2023, requiring surgery to correct a congenital heart issue, causing him to be absent for several months during his recovery.
The NBA gathered a group of three doctors, known as a fitness-to-play panel, to assess James’ medical records and decide if he should be allowed to play. They concluded that he is “physically capable and ready to compete in the NBA as a basketball player,” allowing him to participate in the combine.
James is listed on the roster to play in games on Tuesday, but rosters and game schedules frequently change during the combine. Every player attending the combine must also join a media event on Tuesday.
Bronny James has received medical approval to be selected and compete in the NBA. pic.twitter.com/6BtVnCZ6Pz
— FORSON (@Forson_Jecil) May 13, 2024
The player, who stands at 6-foot-4, had an average of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists during his time at USC last season. He must decide by the end of the month whether to remain in the draft or go back to college basketball for another year.
Bronny James, listed height of 6’4″ on every roster he’s ever played on, measured just a half inch over 6’1″ at the NBA Scouting Combine.
6’1″ guys who averaged 5 points a game in college usually don’t get drafted. I sure do wonnnnder what’s different in Bronny’s case…
— Calvy J (@CJRealHoops1) May 13, 2024
Potential 1st RD Pick Bronny James:
6’1 SG
4.8 PPG
36% FG
26% 3PTYOUNG KING=KID IS NOT GREEN👑🐐🌟‼️ pic.twitter.com/osPtLKOLsh
— Hater Central (@TheHateCentral) May 13, 2024
LeBron James, the leading scorer in NBA history who completed his 21st season in the league, has expressed his desire multiple times in recent years to play in the NBA with his son. However, as the season concluded, the Lakers’ star, who may become a free agent this summer, mentioned that he hasn’t recently considered the idea of playing on a team alongside Bronny James.
LeBron James’ son Bronny James is reportedly going to stay in the NBA draft and his medically cleared to play. If you are the Sixers would you select him and then get LeBron to come to Philly? pic.twitter.com/jfzKKY2r33
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) May 13, 2024
LeBron James said that the young man must follow his desires and make decisions about his career path after the Lakers’ playoff loss to Denver Nuggets, expressing that he prefers not to refer to him as a “kid” anymore. I find it cool that we’re talking about this right now. We will observe the outcome.
LeBron James and Bronny James on the Lakers next year?! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/cvEKjpn6x0
— JA (@JABridgeforth) May 10, 2024