Bronny James has made his decision on whether to pursue the NBA Draft or return to college, with LeBron James’ free agency decision now looking clearer with his Los Angeles Lakers future in question

Bronny James is set to forego his three years of college eligibility and will declare for the NBA Draft. LeBron James’ eldest son will have spent just one year in college basketball, now turning his attention to the NBA where he hopes to be a first-round draft pick.

The 19-year-old played just one season with USC, where he was used as a backup guard, starting just six games and scoring 4.8 points per game. However, James Jr had an impressive pre-draft process – with impressive speed and explosivity testing numbers. James also scored 13 points in a combine team scrimmage, with eye-catching defense and spot-up shooting skills.

He agent, Rich Paul, who is also LeBron’s agent and close friend, said: “Bronny’s draft range is wide. He’s a really good prospect who has a lot of room for growth. It only takes one team. I don’t care where that team is – it can be No. 1 or 58 – but I do care about the plan, the development. The team’s strategy, the opportunity and the financial commitment. That’s why I’m not doing a two-way deal. Every team understands that.”

On Tuesday, it was revealed that Bronny would only work out with two NBA teams – who both happen to be the two who are seen as most likely to land his father in free agency.

Bronny will hold meetings with the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns while declining workouts with eight other teams in the league, signalling both of their interests ahead of the 2024/25 season. Rumours have emerged that the Suns are looking to make a push at signing LeBron should he opt out of his deal with the Lakers – while also being interested in selecting Bronny in the first round.

LeBron has made it clear on several occasions that he is looking to play with Bronny before he finishes his playing career, with the stars seemingly aligning to that potentially happening this offseason.

Bronny James will walk away from college basketball to make the jump to the NBA (Image:

Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: “My last year will be played with my son. Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be. I would do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year. It’s not about the money at that point.”

And while the Suns feel like a legitimate option for both at this point, the Lakers will seemingly be the favorite to land both. To join Phoenix and leave Los Angeles, LeBron would have to walk away from $50 million, while also relocating to Phoenix – with him and Bronny currently living in southern California.

However, James Sr. can wait to make his decision, with his free agency deadline not until after the NBA Draft – when LeBron will know where his son has been drafted to.