In a remarkable showcase amidst a challenging season, Bronny James, the 20-year-old rookie son of NBA superstar LeBron James, demonstrated his growing abilities in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 20, 2025. With his father and several key players sidelined due to injuries, Bronny made the most of his opportunity, scoring 17 points as he stepped into a leading role for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Despite the Lakers' efforts, they succumbed to the Bucks with a score of 118-89, marking a tough defeat at the Crypto.com Arena. However, for Bronny, this game was a personal triumph, signaling a potential turning point in his professional career. He achieved a career-high in points, shooting an efficient 7-of-10 from the field and nailing two three-pointers, along with five assists, three rebounds, and a block.
"This was the first time I reached double figures in my NBA career, and it felt great to contribute like that in such a crucial game," Bronny said post-game. His performance came with nearly 30 minutes of playtime, the most he has seen this season, reflecting the trust that head coach JJ Redick had in him during a challenging moment for the team.
"The opportunity to play was there because we were shorthanded. I just focused on gaining my confidence and comfortability over reps, taking advantage of any chances I get," added Bronny, who looked more in control than in previous outings. This game also marked his first instance of playing over 16 minutes in an NBA game, an important milestone that suggests he is starting to settle into his role.
The game was particularly significant for the Lakers, who were missing stars like LeBron James, Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and several others due to various injuries. Despite the team’s overall struggles, Bronny's rise to the top of the team's scoring chart provided a silver lining for the fans. As noted, Bronny reminded observers that he is capable of executing under pressure, even against an elite team like the Bucks.
"We’ve obviously monitored him in the G League and feel like he’s been really good in those late-game situations when given a chance to play with us. So I wasn’t surprised by tonight’s performance," said Lakers head coach JJ Redick, exhibiting confidence in the young player’s potential. Fans and critics alike had been waiting for Bronny to break through, and while the loss may overshadow his success, the promise he showed has sparked hope for the future.
The atmosphere in the arena was palpable, as the young player went toe-to-toe with some of the best in the league. His highlight play came when he found himself matched up against two-time NBA MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo. Although the moment ended in a turnover, Bronny showcased not just his skills but an audacious willingness to challenge seasoned players, hinting at his growing comfort level in the league.
Even Antetokounmpo recognized the gravity of the moment and made a point to congratulate Bronny after the game, a gesture that adds to the narrative of respect being built around the young star. As Giannis put it, it was a memorable night for the rookie despite the final score.
Looking ahead, fans are excited about Bronny's trajectory. The opportunity to consistently play could be more frequent in the upcoming games, especially with the Lakers aiming to find their rhythm again as their stars return. "It’s all about being ready when the time comes, and I’m grateful for the belief my coaches have in me," Bronny expressed, lending insight into his mindset going forward.
This game could act as a springboard for the younger James, potentially marking the beginning of a new era within the Lakers. The franchise has long been tied to LeBron's legacy, and with him nursing a groin injury, Bronny now faces the pivotal role of proving himself as both a player and a leader on the court. The future remains bright for the Lakers if Bronny continues to harness the skills he displayed against the Bucks. While the team needs its veterans back for a playoff push, the foundation built by this experience can only serve as a stepping stone for Bronny James, an emerging talent destined to write his own legacy in the NBA.
