Bronny James made his G League debut on Saturday, helping the South Bay Lakers snag a 110-96 victory against the Salt Lake City Stars. Starting alongside teammates Quincy Olivari, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Maxwell Lewis, and Christian Koloko, Bronny’s performance reminded fans of his early days with the Lakers as he looked to establish his place in the team.
Bronny’s first points came from a smooth mid-range jumper just 43 seconds into the game, earning cheers from the crowd. He finished the game with 6 points. Quincy Olivari led South Bay with 28 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, while Maxwell Lewis contributed 27 points.
In his first games for South Bay, Bronny James struggled with shooting, going 2 of 9 and missing all four three-point attempts. Still, he contributed with three rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a block.
Bronny joined the South Bay roster just two days earlier after the Lakers’ road trip. This game marked his most significant performance since he scored 15 points in 35 minutes during the Lakers’ preseason finale against the Warriors.
LeBron, Savannah, Zhuri and AD pulled up to Bronny's first G League game 👏
— Ball Don’t Lie (@Balldontlie) November 10, 2024
(via @LoJoMedia)pic.twitter.com/3CZ5RHB7bM
Joyan Buha reported that Bronny’s family, including his sister Zhuri and grandmother Gloria James, were there to support him during his debut. Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell also attended. While fans always criticized Bronny, it’s clear how much his senior teammates care about him.
Bronny James on his G-League debut
According to reports, Bronny is expected to play only in G League home games as he moves between teams. After his debut, Charles Barkley’s words seem spot on—this is a great chance for him to grow and improve his skills.
Bronny James on being in the G League and the differences in expectations between being on South Bay and the #Lakers: pic.twitter.com/GnOtUGHSxg
— Joe Reedy (@joereedy) November 10, 2024
After the match, James told reporters, “I’ve seen all the buzz and stuff about me going down to the G— I mean to the G, not down. It’s just, it’s an amazing experience, for me to go out and play my game and get some minutes under me. I’m just excited for it.”
