Bronny James, the eldest son of NBA superstar LeBron James, committed to the USC Trojans on May 6, 2023.
The 6’3″ guard from Sierra Canyon High School in California revealed his decision on Instagram, expressing his excitement with the hashtag “Fight On #committed.”
Why Bronny James Picked USC Over Other Top Programs
James’ decision to join USC was impacted by many factors, including his excellent relationship with the coaching staff and the program’s potential to help him strengthen both on and off the court.
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Sierra Canyon assistant coach Ed Estevan highlighted this, stating,
“[His] decision came down to how the SC staff builds a relationship with him. How the program can help him on and off the court? Staying close to home is icing on the cake.”
Bronny’s selection process was very confidential, with little transparency regarding his choices. He considered other prominent programs, such as Ohio State and Oregon, but finally chose USC. At the Nike Hoop Summit, he discussed the recruiting process, saying:
“Talking to them, talking to the coaches, it’s good to know they want me there with them. But at the end of the day, it’s my decision, and I need to make the right one for me.”
His father, LeBron James, expressed immense pride in his son’s decision, sharing on Instagram, “So damn proud of you kid! I have no words besides I LOVE YOU @bronny!!! LET’S GO!!!!!!!!”.
Following USC football’s rise to national prominence under coach Lincoln Riley and quarterback Caleb Williams, the young James’ entry helped raise the profile of a USC basketball program that has long been an afterthought in its backyard.
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However, on July 24, 2023, James collapsed during practice due to what was later revealed as cardiac arrest caused by a congenital heart defect. Yet, just five months later, James made his college debut on Dec. 10.
While his collegiate career lasted just one season (25 games, six starts), where he averaged 4.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, James declared for the 2024 NBA Draft and joined his father after the Los Angeles Lakers selected him in the second round.
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