“I’m rooting for him…” Bronny James earns JJ Redick’s praise after NBA pre-season debut
Bronny James earns praise from Los Angeles Lakers new coach JJ Redick, despite a challenging preseason debut.
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Bronny James shines defensively in preseason debut, earning praise from JJ Redick
Bronny James made his preseason debut for the Los Angeles Lakers in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he finished with modest stats. The 19-year-old recorded two points, a rebound, an assist, and three blocks in 16 minutes during the 124-107 loss.
Although he didn’t have the best of games, Lakers’ head coach JJ Redick was impressed by his defensive presence. Bronny James struggled with his shooting during the game, as he went 1/6 from the field. Despite that, Redick expressed confidence in the young player’s potential.
He can do some things defensively at his size that are really unique, and I think can turn into a really disruptive defender… And just a great energy about him. I like being around him. I’m rooting for him. He’s a good player that we’re happy to have in our program.
JJ Redick said in a presser after the game
JJ Redick on Bronny James: “I think
— Lauren Jones (@LoJoMedia) October 5, 2024
defensively at his size he’s unique. On the offensive end, he's trying to figure out who he is…He’s very easy to coach. I like being around him and I'm rooting for him. #Lakeshow pic.twitter.com/WYzfxgXOdb
Coach Redick also highlighted Bronny’s importance to the Lakers’ developmental system, as he noted that he is the first project under Redick’s coaching tenure. Bronny is expected to spend time playing for both the Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, as part of his growth.
The preseason continues as the Purple and Gold will be up against the Phoenix Suns, and Redick mentioned that LeBron James is expected to play, after he was ruled out for the opener. With King James available, it could mark a significant moment for the Lakers as it would be the first time the father-son duo appears in a game together.
Bronny James drops praise on head coach JJ Redick
While he didn’t have the best of debut games, Bronny James has expressed his admiration for the training camp environment fostered by new head coach JJ Redick. As this his first experience in an NBA setting, Coach Redick’s leadership has already made a positive impression on the 19-year-old.
He’s a great coach so far. It’s been amazing vibes in the facility so far. I feel like it’s upped the vibes from what it was last year from what I’ve heard.
Bronny James told the media
Bronny James on JJ Redick: “He's a great coach so far. It's been amazing vibes in the facility so far. I feel like it's upped the vibes from what it was last year from what I've heard.” #Lakeshow pic.twitter.com/iufShRgnsZ
— Lauren Jones (@LoJoMedia) October 4, 2024
Redick was hired to replace the sacked Darvin Ham by the Lakers in June, and shortly after, Bronny was selected as the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft. This will be good news for the Lakers fanbase as ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that LeBron James and other key players, including Anthony Davis, were critical of Ham’s schemes and rotations.
Now, new coach Redick has been given the difficult task of rejuvenating the team following a disappointing first-round playoff exit to the Denver Nuggets. His practices have not only impressed Bronny but also drawn praise from fellow players like Rui Hachimura and D’Angelo Russell.
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Ubong Archibong
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