USC guard Bronny James, one of the most hyped freshmen in recent memory, isn't exactly lighting it up for the Trojans this season.
The 19-year-old is averaging 5.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.1 turnovers per contest, shooting 37.1 percent from the field and 27.5 percent from the three-point range in 19 appearances.
Even though the 6-foot-3 guard is likely to enter the NBA, given his family background, it might be wiser for him to continue his college basketball journey after the current season.
This would allow him to refine and develop his skills further, ensuring he is better prepared for the demands of the NBA when the time comes.
5 reasons Bronny James should stay at USC for 1 More Year
1. Recover from health incident
James faced a setback at the beginning of his college basketball journey when he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest during a USC practice in late July 2023.
This incident was attributed to a congenital heart defect. Despite undergoing surgery to address the issue, the aftermath resulted in a prolonged absence from basketball, impeding his development and depriving him of valuable time to prepare for the season.
It is also unclear how this health incident affected his play on the court, but another year of college basketball won't hurt him to recover fully from this.
2. Develop his skills
Due to health-related reasons, Bronny's absence from the court deprived him of crucial months of practice, which is now evident in his on-court performances.
Despite demonstrating a high basketball IQ and making sound decisions, his struggles with missed shots and incomplete finishes highlight the need for further skill development.
Additional work is needed to meet the demanding standards of the NBA, which is essential for his continued growth and success as a player.
3. Get regular minutes in college
James is currently averaging 20.1 minutes per game during his tenure at USC. While these minutes are respectable, considering that college basketball games consist of two 20-minute halves, they reflect more of a role-player role rather than starter minutes.
Bronny could experience greater development if he were to secure a consistent starting position and receive more substantial playing time, which would only be possible if he stays for another year.
4. Help USC turnaround
USC has struggled this season with an overall record of 11-16 and a conference record of 5-11, making them the second-worst team in the Pac-12 conference.
The team's current standing suggests that qualifying for the NCAA tournament is unlikely unless there is a significant turnaround.
Bronny could play a pivotal role in revitalizing the team next year. A successful college basketball title run in 2025 would solidify his talent before transitioning to the NBA.
5. LeBron James is still good
If Bronny's father, LeBron James, patiently awaits his son's entry into the NBA for them to team up, he has the time.
At 39 years old, LeBron is already the league's oldest active player, but he remains one of its premier talents. Despite the mileage on his body, he has enough left in the tank to wait for Bronny to be ready for the big league.
Related Article: Clippers Unveil Nautical-Themed New Logo and Jerseys - What Does the Compass and Boat Mean for the Team?
© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
