The Los Angeles Lakers made NBA history lately after drafting Bronny James as their 55th NBA Draft overall pick, making LeBron James and James Jr the first father-son duo in the NBA. However, the Lakers’ drafting of James Jr brought in different opinions on the franchise’s decision, some good some bad and some even calling it “Nepotism” to a certain extent.
Notably, famous American rapper Rick Ross recently stood up for Bronny James in the face of criticism about his NBA debut. Ross claimed on social media that most of the NBA fans ‘make him sick’ to put out such views on an upcoming youngster. Ross also claimed that Bronny James is better than “95% players in the league.”
Nepotism-Nepotism. You all making me sick, every two years you'all coming up with a new word. 'The Narrative', 'Toxicity', 'Toxic', now it is Nepotism. 85% all you motherfers got a job by somebody you know. Little Bronny is a bigger star than 95% of the motherf***ers in the league man.Rick Ross on his Instagram Story
Ross expressed his displeasure with these charges and criticized the repeated use of words such as “nepotism.” He made the case that a lot of individuals who condemn James Jr for reaping the benefits of his father’s ties sometimes fail to mention their comparable benefits. It’s interesting to note both LeBron James and his son chose to silence the noise instead of taking this topic further.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka shares his views on Bronny James’ addition
The choice of the Los Angeles Lakers to select Bronny James with the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft was discussed by general manager Rob Pelinka of the organization. Although it is thrilling to think of a father-son encounter on the court that could go down in history, Pelinka stressed that James Jr’s ability and temperament were the main factors in his selection.
Bronny is, first and foremost, a person of high character. And second, he is a young man that works incredibly hard. Those are the qualities we look for in drafting players and adding to our developmental corps at the Lakers...Coach Redick and I were able to welcome him to the Lakers family and let him know that this moment was happening mostly because of the work he's put into the game.In a press conference, Rob Pelinka told the reporters
In addition, Pelinka and the Lakers are looking forward to developing Bronny James and keeping track of his progress as a professional. Also, Pelinka asserted that James Jr would likely be introduced in the summer league, for the next steps in his development.