Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Takes Unexpected Criticism From Bronny James Defenders

Critics of Bronny James claim he was only drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers because his father is the team's star player, while defenders believe the former high school standout's skill earned him the second-round draft selection on merit.

Now, caught in the middle of the debate, is Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.

Some defenders of Bronny James pointed out that nepotism is not unusual in the world of sports and has not generated as much scrutiny as James is facing. Former NFL player turned broadcaster George Wrighster III took to social media to share an example in the Cowboys front office, where three of Jones' adult children occupy prominent roles.

"Yall miss me with the LeBron/Bronny talk," Wrighster wrote in the post on X .

Wrighster went on to list a number of other examples of nepotism in the world of sports, including Mike Shanahan and son Kyle and Bill Belichick and son Stephen.

Others have pointed out that plenty of family members have played professionally at the same time. In an appearance on FS1's First Things First , commentator Nick Wright pointed out that both of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s brothers were drafted into the NBA.

Wright added that people should be enjoying the history taking place in Los Angeles, with the first father-son teammates in NBA history.

“The coverage of the Lakers drafting Bronny has been absolutely maddening, and so disingenuous by so many people,” Wright said. “This should’ve been celebrated. This is one of the coolest stories ever.”

The Lakers selected Bronny James with the No. 55 overall pick despite a disappointing season at USC. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka has defended the pick, saying Bronny James earned the spot based on merit.

"He's worked for everything that he's gotten, including being selected today at No. 55," Pelinka said at a press conference after Thursday's selection.