LeBron James Has Harsh Message for Bronny’s Critics During NBA Summer League

LeBron James has insisted his son Bronny “doesn’t care” about criticism as he takes part in his first Summer League with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Bronny was selected by the Lakers with the 55th overall pick in the second round out of USC. The 19-year-old scored four points in Saturday’s 108-94 loss to the Sacramento Kings before being sidelined for Sunday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors with a knee injury.

Although the 19-year-old is under immense pressure because of his last name and family history, James insisted his eldest son is ready to make his mark in the NBA. James, who is with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the Olympics, believes Bronny is uniquely prepared to handle the scrutiny he has already received.

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“I don’t know if people really understand Bronny,” James told ESPN after USA Basketball practice Sunday. “He doesn’t care. I actually care a little bit. When I came in (as a rookie), I wanted people to like me, and some of the things people were saying about me bothered me a little bit early in my career. … He doesn’t care at all.”

“He doesn’t care about anybody. He doesn’t even listen to that stuff. He’s really cool. He’s the complete opposite of his dad. His dad says something (to respond to criticism). My brother doesn’t care. … Anything that’s said about him, he doesn’t care at all.”

Bronny’s basketball career was thrown into doubt before his freshman season when he suffered a cardiac arrest during a team practice last July. However, he was cleared to return to the court and, after missing the first eight games, made 25 appearances for the Trojans, averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists.