Though it’s just the NBA Summer League, there was a lot of buzz surrounding Thursday’s matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks.
On one hand, it was former Duke star Cooper Flagg’s NBA debut.
The 18-year-old forward, who averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game with the Blue Devils last season while leading them to the Final Four, was the No. 1 overall pick in last month’s draft, and Thursday was the first time fans got to see him step foot on an NBA court.
But as much as fans were buzzing about Flagg’s debut, there was another contingency of fans who were hyped to watch second-year Lakers guard Bronny James, who several analysts believe took a big step forward in his development while splitting his time in the NBA and G League last year.
While there were several celebrities on hand to watch the game, including Las Vegas Raiders rookie running back and Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty, the person who’s attendance drew the most attention on social media was James’ mom, Savannah James.
The 38-year-old entrepreneur and social media influencer was joined by her youngest daughter Zhuri to watch Bronny, her eldest son with husband and Lakers star LeBron James, who was not at Bronny’s game on Thursday, according to Fox Sports NBA reporter Melissa Rohlin.
Savannah’s appearance had fans talking on social media.
“Mrs. Queen Savannah James & Princess Zhuri James in the house❕#JamesGang,” one fan wrote.
“Savannah James ðð¥,” another fan added.
“That’s a beautiful woman,” a third fan gushed.
“Savannah James fine [expletive] on my screen ð¥°,” one user exclaimed.
“ð¥¹ððð,” another user posted.
Through three quarters, the Mavericks lead the Lakers 68-65.
Bronny had eight points, two rebounds, and an assist in 18 minutes. He shot 2-7 from the field and 1-5 from 3-point range.
Conversely, Flagg notched 10 points, five rebounds, three steals, and two assists in 25 minutes. He shot 5-19 from the field and went 0-for-5 from 3-point range.