Los Angeles Lakers rookie Bronny James stepped up against the Milwaukee Bucks, delivering a performance that silenced critics and ignited controversy in equal measure. James exceeded all expectations during the game by scoring 17 points even though LeBron James and Luka Dončić sat out due to injury. However, after the game, much of the conversation centered on the game’s officiating.
Bronny James’ Unique Move Ended up in Controversy
James had a terrific play against Giannis Antetokounmpo in the opening half of last night’s 118-89 loss against the Bucks. Just as James was about to perform a highlight-worthy maneuver, Giannis reached for his shoulder thus ending James’ play. The NBA community passionately debated why no foul was called after an obvious penalty occurred during play. Fans together with analysts and former players simultaneously posted on social media about what they believed were bad calls from referees.
However, despite the controversy, Bronny maintained composure in the post-game press conference. When asked about the play, he showed maturity beyond his years.
“Yeah he’s a much bigger guy than me so I just gotta find a way to get around him somehow. I may have got fouled, that’s up for argument, but, it is what it is, I tried to get me a bucket,” said Bronny during the post-game conference.
“I may have got fouled, that’s up for argument.” 😅
Bronny on trying to score on Giannis
(via @LADEig) pic.twitter.com/HJtjsmS3zn
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 21, 2025
His response revealed an attitude formed through years of intense attention following his entry into professional basketball. As a USC graduate selected 55th in the draft James has received continuous criticism about being compared to his father LeBron James. However, through last night’s performance, Bronny James effectively silenced numerous critics who questioned his ability to establish his own basketball identity in the league.
“Just all the controllables that I can do myself. There’s not really much I can do with people, random people, talking about me every day. Can’t really do much about that, so I just go in the gym and work, put my head down, and try to get better,” added Bronny during the post-game presser.
While the Lakers ultimately fell short by 29 points (118-89) against the Bucks, James’ career night was a silver lining. Besides scoring 17 points, the 20-year-old made 7 assists and shot 70% from the field making him the youngest Lakers rookie to put up these numbers since Magic Johnson.
Now as the season progresses, it’s clear that Bronny is steadily proving himself. He may still have a long way to go to escape the massive shadow of his father, but one thing is certain he is making a name for himself.
Bronny Gets Ultimate Praise From the Lakers’ GM
As mentioned earlier, Bronny has emerged as a potential player for the Los Angeles Lakers after his elite skills display last night. This dedication has not gone unnoticed, prompting rare public commendation from Lakers’ General Manager, Rob Pelinka.
Pelinka who is known for his measured public statements, recently expressed his enthusiasm about Bronny’s development under the guidance of head coach JJ Redick.
“It’s great that JJ had the level of trust to throw him into a big game the other night at Denver, which is a tough place to play, and he got in the game, made a couple defensive plays, made a corner 3, and I think that’s what he prides himself in is the 3-and-D type of archetype. And for him to be doing it in moments in NBA games, that’s great that he’s even grasped that already,” said Pelinka as per ‘The Athletic’.
As of last night, Bronny has participated in 22 games for the Lakers. While his stats stand at 2.3 PPG, his performance in the G League has been impressive, boasting 20.6 points, 5.2 assists, and five rebounds per game.