Jason Williams believes Bronny James would have been better served taking a longer, more independent path to the NBA. But this would've meant either swing on Tobacco Road with Duke or UNC.
On a recent episode of the “Hoopin’ N Hollerin’” podcast, the former NBA guard said Bronny’s development as a player and as a person could have benefited from staying in college and stepping away from the constant shadow of his father, LeBron James.
Williams specifically pointed to powerhouse programs like Duke and North Carolina, saying the distance from Los Angeles and the influence of a legendary college coach might have allowed Bronny to grow into his own identity.
“I wish selfishly that Bronny James would have gone to Duke or North Carolina just to get away from LA. and get away from his pops and go over there and be the man,” Williams said. “If he had stayed in college for four years, I think he’d have been a monster.”
Williams added that from the outside, Bronny’s approach to the game can sometimes appear casual, though he stressed that perception may not reflect reality. He suggested a college environment led by a proven voice in former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski could have sharpened Bronny’s mindset.
Bronny’s accelerated rise has come with mixed reviews. A cardiac arrest scare in 2023 didn’t derail his path, nor did a limited freshman role at USC Trojans. The Los Angeles Lakers selected him with the No. 55 pick in the 2024 NBA draft, igniting ongoing debates about nepotism.
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He has played sparingly at the NBA level while posting several strong performances in the NBA G League. Now in his second season, Bronny remains upbeat as he continues adjusting to the league, hoping time and experience will quiet the debate surrounding how fast he arrived.
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