Rich Paul Shockingly Reveals Who Made the Call to Draft Bronny James, and It Was Not LeBron James

Rich Paul and Bronny James (Image Credit: YouTube/@nbaonespn)

The Los Angeles Lakers took a significant risk by picking Bronny James in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Numerous analysts predicted that the 19-year-old would not get picked. Following his debut and struggles in the first few games, some have accused the decision-makers of nepotism. Bronny’s agent and LeBron’s business partner, Rich Paul, have shared unexpected insight into the drafting process.

Bronny was known to the NBA as LeBron James’ son even before starting his freshman year at USC. According to his agent, Rich Paul, Lakers owner Jeanie Buss made the decision to draft Bronny. Paul recently discussed Bronny’s path to the NBA with ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show,” where he revealed this information.

Paul stated, “Look, Jeanie Buss decided that she’s making this call, and she’s been able to see Bronny in all aspects not only from a basketball perspective but also from a character perspective,” said Paul on the Pat McAfee Show. “And he has everything that aligns with the Laker brand. And so, you have to make that type of call. At the end of the day, we’re not going to spend too much time on that. Bronny has to work his way, and he will.”

The 19-year-old has the backing of one of the Lakers’ most influential figures, but as Paul emphasized, success depends on hard work. The attention on Bronny will only intensify as he strives to establish his own reputation in the NBA apart from his father’s history.

Bronny James Shines Bright in Recent Summer League Performance

Bronny James struggled in his first three Summer League games. He struggled with shooting, making 6 out of 26 shots from the field and missing all 12 attempts from beyond the arc. Despite this, he had a significant defensive effect with 12 rebounds, five steals, and three blocks.

But the Lakers’ rookie improved in the team’s Wednesday Summer League win over the Atlanta Hawks. Even though he made two air balls out of three 3-point tries, he scored two points on one-for-five shooting.