Have you been keeping up with the latest NBA news? If so, you’ve probably heard about the buzz surrounding the term “nepotism.” Nepotism, as defined by Oxford Languages, is the practice of favoring relatives, friends, or associates, especially by giving them jobs. Why is this term making headlines in the NBA? Well, it turns out that Bronny James, the son of the legendary LeBron James, has joined the Los Angeles Lakers, sparking discussions about whether nepotism influenced his route to playing in the NBA. Last year, during Bronny’s one-and-done season at the University of Southern California, he only averaged 4.8 points, but being that his father is LeBron, a four-time champion and arguably one of the greatest players in NBA history, many people believe that LBJ clout played a significant factor in the Lakers, the organization that he currently plays for, to select his son in the second round with the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and that’s exactly what they did.
So, let’s dive into these questions: Is nepotism a concern in the NBA? Is it justified that Bronny was drafted ahead of other players who had superior college stats?
The answer to the first question is whether nepotism is a problem in the NBA. Not at all! In fact, it’s a longstanding tradition that has been embraced throughout the league’s history. Check out this recent example of nepotism within the Antetokounmpo family. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the second eldest brother, is a standout in the NBA, playing for the Milwaukee Bucks. He won a championship, MVP of the league and Defensive Player of the Year. Thanks to his incredible talent, he has not one but two of his brothers in the NBA, and both have achieved championship success. There have been ongoing discussions about whether Giannis’ older brother, Thanasis, who is still on the Bucks’ roster, deserves his place in the league. Some claim that he’s occupying a valuable roster spot, but as long as Giannis is in the league, Thanasis has job security.
Nepotism in the NBA can also occur when the NBA’s next-gen players are drafted based on their father’s reputation. Let’s use Patrick Ewing as an example. Ewing is widely regarded as one of the greatest New York Knicks players of all time. He was an 11-time All-Star, 7-time All-NBA, 3-time All-Defense, and Rookie of the Year. However, his son, Patrick Ewing Jr., had a decent college career. Although he mainly came off the bench, he did win the Sixth Man of the Year award. But was his skill level enough to justify being drafted 43rd overall in the 2008 NBA draft? Perhaps, but was he Patrick Ewing’s son? Most definitely. And how did he fare in the NBA? Well, the Sacramento Kings drafted him, and his career there only lasted just 45 days. The Kings traded him as part of the Ron Artest deal to the Houston Rockets later that August. Then, 15 days later, he was traded again to the New York Knicks for first-round bust Frederic Weis. Pat Jr would score 11 points in 24 minutes in the 2008 Preseason before being waived. So there’s that.
Now, let’s get to the second question: Is it justified that Bronny was drafted ahead of other players who had superior college stats? Possibly. Bronny only took up one draft spot; many players were worthy of being drafted, but for whatever reason, they weren’t. You can’t blame Bronny for that. ut if you asked his agent, Rich Paul, founder of Klutch Sports Group, Bronny would get drafted regardless of his last name. Paul told a TMZ reporter that Bronny James would be in the NBA even if his name was John Smith. How true is that? We’ll never know.” It’s an interesting debate. JJ Redick, his new head coach, even chimed in, saying that the Lakers made a basketball decision when they selected Bronny.
“I want to clarify one thing… Rob [Pelinka] and I did not give Bronny anything. Bronny has earned this… Bronny has earned this through hard work,” said Redick.
“And for us, prioritizing player development,” he continued, “we view Bronny as like case study No. 1. Because, his base level of feel, athleticism, point of attack defender, shooting, passing–there’s a lot to like about his game. As we sort of build out our player development system holistically, he’s going to have a great opportunity to become an excellent NBA player.”
Rob Pelinka, the Lakers general manager, embraces the idea of the Lakers orginaztion making history to have the first ever father-son duo in NBA history.
“In the history of the NBA, there has never been a father and a son that have shared an NBA basketball court,” shared Pelinka. “That feels like something that could be magical. We know and have to respect of course that LeBron has a decision about his opt out … Of course he has freedom to decide whatever is best for him and his family. But if it worked out that he was on our team next season, NBA history could be made.”
Get ready for an epic moment in NBA history: Bronny is gearing up to sign a multi-year deal with the Lakers. Imagine the excitement when he takes the court alongside his dad in the upcoming season. It’s going to be an unforgettable and historic event in the world of basketball.
Back in 2004, the Cleveland Cavaliers made a game-changing decision by selecting LeBron James as the No. 1 overall pick. Fast forward to today, and LeBron has achieved incredible milestones, including winning Rookie of the Year, 4 MVP awards, 4 Finals MVP awards, 4 NBA championships, and making 20 All-Star game appearances. As he gears up for his 22nd season at the age of 39, he’s still dominating the court with an average of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists. Although he’s played alongside numerous legends, nothing compares to the excitement of potentially sharing the court with his son.
