Is Bronny James fatigue already setting in among some NBA fans?
An ad for the NBA Summer League prominently featuring the Lakers' second-round pick raised a few eyebrows ahead of his debut on Saturday, which will come alongside fellow rookie Dalton Knecht.
Knecht and James will be the headliners of the Lakers' Summer League squad, but each will have to earn roles ahead of the regular season. Knecht will likely have one, given his advanced scoring ability and experience. James likely won't, as ESPN reported he's expected to spend the bulk of the season in the G League.
The mere fact James isn't likely to see heavy NBA minutes next season is one reason why fans are questioning the league's latest Summer League ad. Here's a look at what has some fans upset.
MORE: Full details on Bronny James' rookie contract
Bronny James Summer League ad, explained
Fans are reacting harshly to a Summer League ad prominently featuring James along with Wizards rookie and No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr.
Lakers guard Bronny James is front and center on NBA Summer League ads in Las Vegas pic.twitter.com/gQYa9grDJW
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) July 5, 2024
Plenty were disappointed that the player who was front and center was the No. 55 pick who didn't have an impressive college career.
55th pick never had so much media attention
— 💲 (@armoneeyy) July 5, 2024
This is probably the first time a 55th pick is getting this much marketing 😂
— Jeremy Kazieva (@jeremy_kazieva) July 5, 2024
Alright it’s getting ridiculous
— /d/ (@Sirkle_) July 5, 2024
bro wasn't even a first round pick 🤣
— men in uniforms determine my mental (@exe_ItsJosh) July 5, 2024
It's no secret James has received a disproportionate amount of attention for someone who wasn't selected until the final handful of picks. The storyline of James suiting up alongside his father, a scene expected to play out early in the season, is as intriguing as any out of what was considered a weak draft class.
MORE: Who could the Lakers still target after LeBron James' new deal?
Last year's Summer League promotions focused on Victor Wembanyama, Scoot Henderson and Brandon Miller, but the reality is there is no player comparable to Wembanyama or even perhaps Miller in this year's rookie class (though Miller actually is on the Hornets' Summer League roster).
To that point, a few fans noted that James was the most recognizable player in the draft.
Bronny is just more marketable than the other first round picks
— Kere 🌸 (@dulcisnaya) July 5, 2024
Casual fans know bronny, serious fans are the minority and ain’t spending causal fan money
— dontguess (@iswearimworkin) July 5, 2024
At the same time, some fans seem to think intensely promoting James is a missed opportunity for the league. If the top players selected in the draft are so anonymous, why not emphasize the Summer League as a chance to get to know them? A strong few games from Zaccharie Risacher, Donovan Clingan, Zach Edey, Jared McCain or others could help the NBA build excitement for what is a quiet rookie class.
The NBA knows what kind of interest the Lakers draw, however, and the league certainly knows the interest LeBron James draws. As long as the younger James is on the floor, he's going to be marketed.
MORE: Four reasons to believe Bronny will succeed with the Lakers
Bronny James Summer League schedule
If you are someone who's looking forward to watching James see some Summer League action for the Lakers, here's a look at when Los Angeles will be playing:
California Classic
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sat., July 6 | Lakers vs. Kings | 4:30 p.m. | ESPN, Sling |
| Sun., July 7 | Lakers vs. Warriors | 6:30 p.m. | NBA TV, Sling |
| Wed., July 10 | Heat vs. Lakers | 7 p.m. | ESPN2, Sling |
Las Vegas Summer League
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri., July 12 | Rockets vs. Lakers | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN, Sling |
| Mon., July 15 | Celtics vs. Lakers | 10:30 p.m. | NBA TV, Sling |
| Wed., July 17 | Lakers vs. Hawks | 9:30 p.m. | ESPN, Sling |
| Thurs., July 18 | Lakers vs. Cavaliers | 9 p.m. | ESPN, Sling |
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