Bronny James had a great game on Friday, scoring a career-high 30 points in a G League game for the South Bay Lakers. On his show Saturday, Stephen A. Smith praised James for his performance.
He urged Bronny to emulate his father, NBA legend LeBron James.
"Congratulations to Bronny, but keep it up," Smith said. "It's a marathon, baby. It ain't a sprint. And nobody is in a better position to know that than your father.
"But let me tell you something, he's an all-time great. He's never cheated the game, and that brother works his tail off to improve all the time. Emulate pops to the best of your ability and you'll be just fine."
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Bronny, a second-round draft pick, has drawn significant media attention, and his start in the NBA has sparked criticism and accusations of nepotism from fans and analysts. However, his performances for the South Bay Lakers, the LA Lakers' G League affiliate, have shown signs of improvement.
Aside from his on-court performance, Bronny has been a lucrative addition to the Lakers. His jersey sales have exceeded 500,000 units, generating more than $50 million in revenue.
Bronny James encouraged by former NFL player after turning up with the South Bay Lakers
Bronny James impressed a lot of people with his performance on Friday. Former NFL player Cam Newton shared his thoughts on the rookie on ESPN's "First Take."
"Bronny James, bro," Cam Newton said (2:30). "You are representing so many people. You are representing so many kids. Do right by it. Keep working, dog. We're seeing it. 30 points, that ain't easy to do. I don't give a damn if it was in the G League. It's done. And you gotta keep getting your reps."
Bronny, in his last three G League games, is averaging 20.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. Overall he averages 14.4 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.4 apg and 1.0 steals while shooting 20% from the 3-point line and 37.7% from the field.
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