Much has been made regarding Bronny James’ NBA prospects heading into the 2024 NBA Draft process. If he keeps on performing like he did on Monday afternoon, he should have no problem garnering interest among front offices.
James strung together an impressive showcase under the glimmering spotlight of Chicago’s Wintrust Arena, displaying both twitchy athleticism and a slick jump shot, both of which could help assuage fears that he could struggle at the next level.
James is perhaps the most talked about prospect in this year’s draft class, a result of his famous last name. He’s widely viewed as a borderline second-rounder/undrafted free agent. However, if the tools he flashed on Monday are legit, James could register some praise — and perhaps a much-vaunted selection in the upcoming NBA Draft.
Here’s what you need to know:
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Bronny James vertical jump
James comes from leaping pedigree. And much like his father, Bronny is blessed with springs for legs.
The USC product recorded a max vertical of 40.5 inches on Monday, the fourth-highest mark of any prospect who took part in the combine.
Bronny James getting ⬆️ at the NBA draft combine pic.twitter.com/DpQVoyhj73
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 14, 2024
His standing vertical was measured at 32 inches, according to the Los Angeles Times’ Dan Woike.
The effectiveness of James’ leap doesn’t come as much of a surprise. He’s a tremendously gifted athlete, especially when compared to counterparts of a similar size. James also performed favorably in the pro lane agility drills, another window into his freakish athletic profile.
Bronny James pro lane agility drill at the NBA draft combine. pic.twitter.com/DC9JK6STPl
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 13, 2024
Although he was measured as shorter than his reported playing size — James’ height without shoes was recorded as 6-foot, 1.50 inches — his leaping ability could be of use to interested franchises.
MORE: Bronny James cleared medically ahead of NBA Draft Combine
Bronny James shooting drill results
If there was one part of James’ game that needs more refinement, it’s his shooting. His mechanics improved throughout his high school career, culminating with a 5-of-8 day from the three-point line during last season’s McDonald’s All-American Game.
However, questions still swirled regarding the combo guard’s ability to hit jump shots consistently at the next level.
James did well to give scouts a taste of his improved shooting stroke on Monday, sinking 19 of his 25 shot attempts during the three-point star shooting drill — significantly better than his 26.7-percent performance from deep during the season for USC.
It was quite the exhibition for James, who went more than a minute without missing. Those who were in attendance were captivated as he finished second among all combine invitees in the event.
Bronny just went a full minute and 15 seconds without missing in movement shooting drill, which is also a test for conditioning, shooting when tired. Impressive stuff here pic.twitter.com/SD6p95cK07
— Jonathan Wasserman (@NBADraftWass) May 14, 2024
All in all, it proved a decent day for James at the office. Scouts will be hoping to see his toolkit on display during the combine’s 5-on-5 contests. If so, he could have a chance at hearing his name called at some point during this year’s draft.
Bronny James scouting report
For more on Bronny James' NBA outlook, check out SN's Kyle Irving's scouting report of the USC product.
Irving referred to him as a player who could become "a reliable two-way guard" because he is "an intelligent defender, connective playmaker, solid 3-point shooter, and vocal leader with an incredible feel for the game."
