The Los Angeles Lakers formally introduced Bronny James on Tuesday.
This year’s No. 55 pick joined the team alongside first-round selection Dalton Knecht. At Tuesday’s press conference, the rookies posed in their new Lakers uniforms.
The Lakers posted a photo of James wearing a No. 9 jersey alongside Knecht, who will don No. 4. They also shared a shot of them holding up the back of their jerseys, which identifies the son of LeBron James as “James Jr.”
Welcome to the #LakeShow, Rooks. pic.twitter.com/tphsKPsYpM
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) July 2, 2024
Your newest Lakers 💜 pic.twitter.com/9NSlcEml7L
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) July 2, 2024
Speaking to reporters, the 19-year-old said he hasn’t yet spoken much with LeBron about what’s expected of him since the Lakers drafted him last Thursday. However, Bronny has learned plenty from his famous father over the years.
“Just having that work ethic and coming in and getting your work in. Listening to your coaches and being coachable,” Bronny said, via NBA TV. “Stuff like that, he’s driven into my head my whole life.”
The former USC guard also acknowledged the “amplified amount of pressure” he’ll face playing alongside LeBron.
“I’ve already seen it [in the] media and [on the] internet talking about how I might not deserve an opportunity, but I’ve been dealing with stuff like this for my whole life,” Bronny said. “So it’s nothing different. It’s amplified for sure, but I’ll get through it.”
JJ Redick insisted that Bronny wasn’t a nepotism pick. The new Lakers head coach cited Bronny’s defense, passing, shooting, and athleticism as reasons for there being “a lot to like about his game.”
“Rob [Pelinka] and I did not give Bronny anything,” Redick said. “Bronny has earned this … Bronny has earned this through hard work.”
Related: Bronny James Was Asked If He Feels Pressure Playing With His Dad