Bronny James staying in NBA draft, agent Rich Paul says - ESPN

USC freshman guard Bronny James will remain in the 2024 NBA draft and forgo his remaining collegiate eligibility, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN.

Hours ahead of the 11:59 p.m. ET NCAA deadline Wednesday, Paul told ESPN: «He's staying in the draft.»

James, the No. 54 prospect in the ESPN 100, has had a strong pre-draft process and elevated his standing from fringe to draftable prospect. James, a son of Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, declared for the draft and entered the transfer portal in early April. As expected, he has completed his college basketball career and turned his full attention to the NBA.

«Bronny's [draft] range is wide,» Paul told ESPN. «He's a really good prospect who has a lot of room for growth. It only takes one team. I don't care where that team is — it can be No. 1 or 58 — [but] I do care about the plan, the development. The team's strategy, the opportunity and the financial commitment. That's why I'm not doing a two-way deal. Every team understands that.»

Each NBA team has three two-way contracts in addition to a 15 regular roster spots. Two-way deals limit players to 45 days on the NBA roster with a corresponding salary — with the rest of the season spent in the G League. Two-way deals are often offered to second-round and undrafted prospects.

James, 19, tested as one of the fastest and most explosive athletes at the NBA draft combine in Chicago earlier this month, ranking second among 71 participants in two 3-point shooting drills. James also had 13 points in a combine team scrimmage.

He participated in a heavily attended pro day at the Lakers' practice facility last week, where he again demonstrated his highlight-reel explosiveness and improving perimeter shooting ability.

James