"This is the life he chose, he chose to aspire to be a professional athlete" - Rich Paul says Bronny James should prepare for the grind of the NBA

As the 2024 NBA Draft approaches, the spotlight is set to shine on a unique prospect, LeBron James' son, known to many as Bronny . His journey is not just about his personal aspirations but also about living up to the towering legacy of his father, the NBA's "King." This familial connection brings with it a weight of expectations that few other rookies have to bear.

Guiding Bronny through this pivotal phase of his career is not just an agent but a close family friend: Rich Paul . As one of the league's best agents, he has a deep understanding of the NBA landscape and a strong network within the assocication and is instrumental in helping Bronny navigate the challenges and expectations that come with being a high-profile prospect.

Regardless of the team that the 19-year-old guard ends up with, Paul's advice remains the same: prepare for the grueling journey of making it to the roster and proving his worth to secure a spot in the rotation.

Have to be thick-skinned

As the future of Bronny in the NBA hangs in the balance, mock drafts have placed him in a wide range, from no. 10 to no. 55. Wherever the 6'1" guard lands, one thing is sure; he'll be under the scrutiny of fans and opponents alike. Whether he's earned his place in the league or is merely due to his last name, a concern often raised in the context of nepotism in professional sports, is likely to be a recurring theme in his early career.

After all, Bronny had an unremarkable one-and-done season at USC, where he averaged pedestrian numbers of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. However, he showcased his potential at the NBA Combine, particularly during the scrimmage sessions, where he demonstrated his agility, court vision, and scoring ability. Despite this, veteran scouts remained unconvinced that he has what it takes to reach the next level.

"People feel a lot better saying something negative to you before they can ever be positive, right? It just makes them feel good for whatever reason," Rich said in the latest episode of Gilbert Arenas' podcast.

Rather than pout or, worse, engage in arguments or debates with his detractors, Rich said James Jr. must begin developing a thicker skin that would help him navigate the complex and, at times, cutthroat world of professional basketball.

"Bronny can't be above the criticism and opinions of others because this is the world he's in. He shouldn't get any preferential treatment; he has to go through the journey and the barbershop talk. This is the life he chose, aspiring to be a professional athlete, so he has to embrace that smoke," the Klutch Sports Group CEO remarked.

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Part of pro hoops

Being an NBA basketball player has plenty of benefits. There's the fame and the financial windfall, as well as the chance to travel and compete against some of the best athletes in the world. However, with those perks also come intense scrutiny and pressure from fans, media, and even fellow players. In a world where social media can amplify praise and criticism, young athletes like Bronny must have a strong sense of self and mental resilience.

"That's just part of it, and I don't want anything different from that perspective. The expectation is there, and people decide to honor or dishonor whatever they want. They look past the medical issues and expect him to be this superhuman young man, averaging 55 points a game," Rich surmised.

Despite Bronny's meager college averages, Rich believes there's a next level that the young hooper can still reach if and when he latches onto an NBA squad. Whereas the NCAA game focuses heavily on team chemistry and development, the NBA is a different animal, as individual skill can make or break one's career.

"As we know, some people's game and development are not suited for the collegiate level. I personally think you develop better at a pro level because there's more intention on your development," Rich Paul stressed.

Bronny James has come a long way and is now at the doorstep of his dream. With his potential and work ethic, one NBA team will undoubtedly take a chance on the 19-year-old to see what he can do at this level.

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