The Associated Press has learned that Bronny James, son of Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James, has received medical clearance to join the NBA, according to a source familiar with the matter.
NBA teams were informed of this development through a memo circulated on Monday morning, the details of which were not disclosed publicly. The clearance comes following medical examinations undergone by all players at the draft combine in Chicago.
The clearance decision was anticipated, given Bronny James’ participation in the final 25 games for Southern California during the past season as a freshman. His journey was marked by a setback when he suffered cardiac arrest during a practice session in July 2023, necessitating a procedure to address a congenital heart defect. Following months of recovery, he resumed play.
A fitness-to-play panel, comprising three medical professionals, convened by the NBA reviewed James’ medical records to assess his eligibility. Their conclusion deemed him “medically able and fit to play basketball in the NBA,” paving the way for his participation in the combine.
James showcased his skills during workouts on Monday, notably demonstrating his shooting prowess by hitting 19 of 25 3-pointers in one session and recording a vertical jump of 40 1/2 inches. His height was measured at 6 feet, 1 1/2 inches without shoes, contrasting with his USC listing of 6-foot-4.
Bronny James just crushed the 3-point star shooting drill at the NBA draft combine. 19/25, good for second place. pic.twitter.com/50UVXXy3GY
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 14, 2024
Scheduled to partake in on-court games on Tuesday, James, along with other participants, is expected to engage in media sessions as part of the combine activities.
During his tenure at USC, the shooting guard averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. He retains the option to remain in the draft or return to college basketball, with a decision expected by the end of the month.
LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, has expressed interest in playing alongside his son but emphasized Bronny’s autonomy in shaping his career. Following the conclusion of the Lakers’ season, LeBron stated, “The kid has to do what he wants to do — and I don’t even want to say kid no more — the young man will decide what he wants to do and how he wants his career to go, I just think the fact that we’re even having the conversation is pretty cool in the sense of that. Obviously, we’ll see what happens.”
“I’ve had a year with some ups and downs but all added to growth for me as a man, student and athlete,” James wrote on Instagram. “I’ve made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility, and will also be entering the NCAA transfer portal. Thank you to USC for an amazing freshman year, and as always thankful for my family, friends, doctors, athletic trainers and fans for their support.”
