In the aftermath of a standout performance by Bronny James, the public discord between ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith and Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has taken a notable turn. This week, Bronny, in a remarkable game against the Milwaukee Bucks, scored a career-high 17 points, showcasing his potential and determination as he navigates the challenges of rookie life in the NBA.
The Lakers, battling injuries to key players including LeBron James and Luka Doncic, suffered a 118-89 defeat on Thursday, March 20, 2025. However, for the 20-year-old Bronny, it was an opportunity to shine. He played 30 minutes, shooting 7-for-10 from the field and contributed five assists along with three rebounds in what many are calling a breakthrough performance.
Following the game, Smith took to social media and his show, acknowledging his prior misjudgment regarding Bronny's capabilities. "I might have been wrong. Are you listening, LeBron James? Are you listening, James family? Are you listening, Rich Paul?" he remarked, signaling a significant shift in his view after months of criticism.
This shift comes in the wake of a confrontation between Smith and LeBron on March 6, where LeBron expressed his discontent over Smith’s critical remarks about his son, which suggested that Bronny was only in the NBA due to his father's massive influence. During a January episode of First Take, Smith even pleaded with LeBron to protect Bronny from the pressures of the NBA spotlight as he struggled with early performances.
Yet, on Friday, March 21, after watching Bronny's performance, Smith seemed almost impressed, as he elaborated on how Bronny displayed a noticeable elevation in confidence and poise on the court. "It was like it didn’t faze him; he didn’t look as nervous as he had looked in previous appearances. He looked like somebody who belonged," Smith stated during a segment of First Take, which only further exemplifies the budding narrative surrounding Bronny's development.
Despite the Lakers' loss, Smith’s newfound respect for Bronny echoes the sentiments of many fans who have watched the young player grow throughout the season. Earlier in the season, Bronny’s time was limited, but the recent spate of injuries has opened the door for increased playtime, allowing him to showcase his skills under pressure.
Beyond the stats, Bronny's performance highlights the evolving nature of his career as he continues to adapt and learn. He himself reflected on his growth after the game, noting, "Just all the coaches believing in me and continuing to put that in my head that they believe in me and what I can do as a player." His words reveal a young athlete independent yet grounded in the support of his team and coaching staff, which plays a crucial role in his development.
As of now, Bronny has played 22 games for the Lakers, tallying a total of 50 points, 13 rebounds, and 13 assists. Meanwhile, he’s been excelling in the G League with the South Bay Lakers, averaging 20.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. His solid performances there further complement his contributions at the NBA level and may grant him a more permanent role within the Lakers' rotation as the playoffs approach.
Head coach JJ Redick, who previously was a sharpshooter in the NBA, has been pivotal in developing Bronny's game. Redick stated he expects Bronny to become an elite conditioned athlete and potentially an impactful shooter in the league. Redick's assessment carries weight, given his background and understanding of the game's demands.
The Lakers, who are navigating a tough season, find themselves in a unique position. With Bronny's performance breathing new life into discussions surrounding the Lakers' future, it may also quell the lingering tensions between Smith and the James family. As Smith himself acknowledged, it will take more than one game to prove he is definitely an NBA player, but the signs are increasingly promising.
While Bronny may still have a way to go before establishing himself firmly in the league, his performance against the Bucks has undoubtedly shifted the narrative. His resilience and hard work have begun to pay off, and if he continues on this trajectory, the Lakers may soon find themselves having consistent contributions from Bronny as they look to solidify their playoff aspirations.
As Smith noted, "When he plays well, we’re going to give him props. When he doesn’t play well, we’re going to say so." This honesty in sports commentary remains vital. As the season progresses, Bronny's journey is one that fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, hoping to see him thrive and grow into the role expected of him as part of the storied Lakers franchise.
