Kevin Durant comments on Bronny James’ projected top-10 selection in the 2024 NBA draft
In the latest episode of The ETCs Podcast, 13-time All-Star Kevin Durant discussed why Bronny James is projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2024 NBA draft, beginning at the 1:00 mark:
“Bronny is a McDonald’s All-American, Hoop Summit participant, and probably Jordan Classic participant, so I can see why he’s up there,” said Durant.
The latest mock draft by Jonathan Givony of ESPN has James, the eldest son of Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, going 10th overall in 2024. He is a 6’3″ combo guard for Los Angeles’ Sierra Canyon. Currently, 247Sports ranks him as the 34th-best 4-star recruit in the class of 2023.
Additionally, Durant commented on James’ evolution over the years (2:21 mark).
“I witnessed Bronny passing the ball a few years ago. I now see him leaving everywhere. His physique evolved. I feel as though we’ve been watching him since he was two or three years old if you catch my drift. Seeing where he is now, I am therefore rooting for him. Hopefully, he will eventually get to play with Bron.”
Givony noted James’s growth during his high school years, particularly on the defensive end.
James has grown, filled out his frame, found another gear with his explosiveness, and become an absolute terror off the ball defensively due to his exceptional intensity and feel for the game over the past 12 to 18 months, while most of his peers have plateaued.
It is unclear what James will do in the year before he is eligible to join the NBA, but Durant hopes he chooses the college route and even made a prediction.
James will attend the McDonald’s All-American Games on March 28 in Houston.
Final Thoughts
Kevin Durant understands why Bronny James, the son of NBA superstar LeBron James, is projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2024 NBA draft, according to NBA Updates. He cited James’ impressive basketball credentials, such as being a McDonald’s All-American and participating in the Hoop Summit and Jordan Classic. Durant also commented on James’ evolution and growth as a player, particularly on the defensive end.
While it is unclear what James will do before becoming eligible for the NBA, Durant expressed his hope that he chooses to go the college route. Overall, it is fascinating to see the buzz around James and his potential future in the NBA, and it will be interesting to see how he develops over the coming years.