Throughout its history, the NBA has maintained a tradition where experienced players mentor new talent and esteemed legends teach aspiring up-and-coming stars. From LeBron James using his experience to guide Austin Reaves alongside Kobe Bryant’s guidance to Jayson Tatum forms part of an endless inspiration loop.
However, a more personal narrative is emerging in the league which is brothers uplifting brothers. This was on full display last night when Bronny James, fresh off a career-best performance against the Milwaukee Bucks, took a moment to share invaluable words of encouragement for his younger brother, Bryce James.
Bronny James Motivated His 17-Year-Old Brother
Bronny showed his elite skills, by pouring in a career-high 17 points and five assists against the Milwaukee Bucks last night. However, what caught attention beyond his performance was the heartfelt moment when Bronny pivoted to address his younger brother Bryce during a post-game presser. The 17-year-old has been watching his sibling navigate the challenging NBA landscape while preparing for his own basketball journey.
“Work hard, don’t take it for granted because there a lot of people that want to be in our spot,” said Bronny.
Bronny James on the advice he gives his younger brother Bryce about basketball: “Work hard, don’t take it for granted because there a lot of people that want to be in our spot.” pic.twitter.com/lH929ippTs
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) March 21, 2025
Bryce, who is a rising star in his own right, has been making waves at the high school level. His recent success at Sierra Canyon has only cemented his potential. During his high school season, Bryce guided his team to victory in the state championship while maintaining averages of eight points and 4.2 rebounds per contest.
The impressive performances of Bryce captured several major college programs but he ultimately chose to join Arizona Wildcats for the 2025 season.
Now coming back to last night’s game, giving inspiration wasn’t the only thing that the No. 9 did. Since the day he was drafted as the 55th overall pick in the league, Bronny has faced immense pressure as he was constantly being compared to his father, LeBron James.
Many doubted his ability to carve out his own legacy in the NBA. But last night, Bronny sent a message, not just with his play, but with his mindset.
“There’s not really much I can really do about random people talking about me. Can’t really do much about that, so I just go to the gym and put my head down and try to get better,” said Bronny during the post-game presser.
The NBA career of Bronny continues while Bryce prepares for his college basketball debut without altering their strong connection. The experiences of these brothers extend beyond the basketball courts to demonstrate personal growth and family bonds. Moreover, a few days there was another incident that showed the sibling camaraderie.
When Bryce Took a Stand to Defend Bronny’s Legacy
From draft night onwards, Bronny has faced an unrelenting storm of criticism. Even his impressive G League stint, where he averaged 20.6 points, and 5.2 assists per game, failed to quiet the skeptics who questioned his NBA readiness. Yet amid this river of doubt, it was his younger brother Bryce who unexpectedly emerged as his best defender.
After leading Sierra Canyon to victory over Stockton Lincoln in the CIF State Division I championship game with a narrow 58-53 win, Bryce James faced reporters flushed with championship glory.
During the post-game interview, when a reporter inquired if Bryce would boast about his achievement over Bronny, Bryce firmly responded, emphasizing the unity and mutual support within their family.
“He definitely should’ve had one. I’d still say it’s one and one. It’s one and one,” said Bryce about Bronny.
This family solidarity was proved right last night, when Bronny recorded a career-high 17 points, along with five assists, three rebounds, and 7 out of 10 shot attempts made in 30 minutes of play against the Milwaukee Bucks.
This game achieved two meaningful things since it brought a personal peak and then indicated the start of what seems likely to become a journey toward legendary status.