ESPN's Jay Williams Has Bold Take On Nepotism Amid Bronny James Criticism

The Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James in the second round of the NBA draft. The move is being scrutinized because Bronny is the son of LeBron James among other reasons.

Among the criticisms of the pick is preferential treatment some believe Bronny is receiving because he is the son of LeBron James. Claims of nepotism have circulated on social media and sparked a heated debate online.

Former NBA player and Duke Blue Devils great Jay Williams offered an interesting take on the situation. He discussed supposed merits of nepotism in this instance.

"Don't we need more instances of Black nepotism? Especially when that person has the disposition and the demeanor of somebody that's worthy of being put in that position."

Many disagreed with the statement, including former ESPN host Bomani Jones, who defined the take as "unprincipled" and "pathetic."

The issue in regard to nepotism perhaps isn't whether or not a father and son can play on the same team. The issue is whether or not another player would have been more deserving of the draft pick.

In Ken Griffey Sr.'s final season with the Seattle Mariners, Griffey had a .282 batting average in 85 plate appearances. Many regard his son, Ken Griffey Jr., to have had among the best swings in baseball history. Both added value to the Mariners.

Where some take issue with the selection of the younger James is on-court college production.

Bronny's selection by the Lakers comes after a difficult college season with the USC Trojans. James put up 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 26.7% from the three point range and 36.6% from the field.

The above stats aren't quite NBA draft caliber, but perhaps James has tangible and intangible traits that didn't show up on the stat sheet.

Regardless of individual opinions, the Lakers organization felt comfortable enough to draft Bronny James. We'll monitor whether or the team benefits from the move.

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