Bronny James scores first NBA points on Wednesday night in a 134-110 road loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers, his hometown team. Despite the loss, the game held a sentimental value as the Cleveland crowd cheered loudly for the young Lakers rookie. Bronny, son of superstar LeBron James, also received an unexpected memento: the Cavaliers presented him with the game net—a move that sparked both celebration and controversy. While many saw it as a supportive gesture for a hometown player, analyst Jason Whitlock had harsh words for what he considered undue fanfare.
As Bronny James scores his first points in the NBA, the anticipation in the arena was palpable. Selected as the No. 55 pick in the draft, Bronny James’s first NBA points have been one of the most talked-about rookie achievements, largely due to his father’s influence and the attention he has garnered since high school. The fanfare began even as he checked into the game with just over five minutes left on the clock. A few moments later, he made his first basket, sinking a fadeaway jumper to a standing ovation. The Cavaliers’ decision to award him the game net afterward was unprecedented, especially given that the game had been a loss for the Lakers.
Despite the warm reception from fans, Bronny James scoring his first basket didn’t sit well with everyone. Analyst Jason Whitlock, a frequent critic of LeBron James, took issue with the special treatment, branding it as undeserved. “Bronny ‘Make-a-Swish’ James is the Tim Walz of the NBA,” Whitlock said, criticizing what he called “#StolenValor” for celebrating a rookie’s first basket in such a grand manner. Whitlock’s remarks, suggesting that Bronny James’s first NBA points should not have been treated as a monumental achievement, come as part of a broader critique of LeBron’s influence in elevating his son’s profile in the NBA. Whitlock has frequently accused LeBron of overshadowing Bronny’s journey with his own fame, calling LeBron “an egomaniac” who is “throwing his son into the script.”
While the spotlight on Bronny James scoring his first NBA points is a given, Whitlock’s criticism reflects a debate about his place in the league. His limited playing time so far, along with his performance as a second-round pick, has some analysts questioning whether his roster spot is based more on family legacy than on ability. However, the rookie’s response after the game showed maturity as he expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from Cleveland. “It was insane,” Bronny said. “Much more than I anticipated for sure. It’s all love. It was a nice moment. The chants really got me. I was straight-faced, but I felt it, and it felt pretty good, especially coming from here.” His heartfelt remarks show a young player aware of both his privilege and the expectations surrounding him.
Bronny James scoring his first NBA points is likely just the beginning of a career that will be closely watched. His every move, both on and off the court, has already become fodder for both praise and critique, a trend that will likely continue as he navigates his rookie season. As the LA Lakers head into their next game against the Toronto Raptors, eyes will be on Bronny to see if he can build on this debut. Meanwhile, analysts like Whitlock are certain to keep their gaze firmly on his progress, amplifying both the scrutiny and pressure he faces.
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