Kevin Hart bluntly reacts to the Bronny James criticism and LeBron James nepotism allegations: "Everybody really wants the story of the bad guy"

Nepotism continues to dominate talks involving LeBron James and his son Bronny James in the NBA. Many are convinced the former Trojan is in the pros only because of the four-time MVP’s influence and name. Boston Celtics All-Star Jaylen Brown was in the headlines recently for saying James Jr. doesn’t belong in the league – yet.

Weeks before the 2024 NBA Draft, Rich Paul, the Jameses' agent, took in stride criticisms. Paul said in an interview with Chris Haynes that America is “built on nepotism.” He gave Jim Dolan, the New York Knicks owner who took over the business started by his father Charles Dolan, as an example.

Kevin Hart, a close friend of LeBron James, tossed in his thoughts regarding the conversation that is centered on Bronny James:

"Everybody loves the story of the good guy, but everybody really wants the story of the bad guy. There’s a lot of good things that’s being said about Bronny [James] right now as well, but you can’t hear it over the volume that people are adding to the bad things."

Besides giving Jim Dolan as an example, the comedian defended LeBron James and Bronny James by comparing the situation to his daughter:

“My daughter is in love with the idea of creativity of producing and developing. It’s my job as a father to not only give her the right information but put her in the best position to succeed.”

Kevin Hart is putting facts on the table but that will not deter or even limit many from piling on the criticism. Bronny James’ struggles in the Summer League have only added fuel to their arguments. It’s a conversation that will not end with Hart’s purposeful and passionate comments.

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Kevin Hart harps on “hard work” as key for Bronny James

Kevin Hart called the nepotism talks “ignorant.” For him, “single moms work 20 jobs” to give their children the tools and opportunity to succeed. But, the actor emphasized that the parents can only do so much. Bronny James has to put in the work to prove that he belongs in the NBA.

“It’s your job to do the work. … My father has embraced me and my brother and my sister and has embedded us into this world of training, constant improvement and it’s paid off because I’m now playing on the biggest stage with the biggest campus, and I’m now here but I got work to do.”

In five summer league games, Bronny James’ numbers prove what most have been saying. He must improve his game after averaging 5.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.2 steals. LeBron James’ son is hitting 28.6% of his attempts, including a horrific 10% from behind the arc.

The LA Lakers superstar has done his part in bringing James Jr. to the NBA. Now, the rookie has to put in the work to prove that he belongs and silence nepotism talks.