A Shift in Perspective

In a surprising turn of events, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has altered his view on Bronny James, son of NBA superstar LeBron James. Just two months ago, he openly critiqued Bronny’s readiness for the NBA, urging the young player to gain experience in the G League. However, following Bronny’s recent performance against the Phoenix Suns, where he tallied 17 points and showcased significant skill, Smith has changed his tone.

Impressive Stats Highlight Bronny’s Potential

During the game against the Suns, Bronny chalked up 17 points with a shooting accuracy of 70%, making 7 of 10 attempts from the field. His stats also included two successful three-pointers and five assists over a 30-minute playing time. This game marked the second occasion in his early NBA career where he has logged over 30 minutes on the court, having previously achieved the same milestone against the Golden State Warriors, where he again scored 17 points.

Stephen A. Smith’s Commentary

On the latest episode of First Take, Smith expressed his admiration for Bronny. “I was very impressed because I saw an elevation in his level of confidence and poise,” Smith remarked. He noted that Bronny handled the pressure well and displayed skills that suggested he deserved a place on an NBA roster.

“I’ve always believed that this kid has the potential, once I watched him, to be in the NBA,” said Smith, signaling a shift in his previous stance on Bronny’s career trajectory.

Contrasting Views and Reactions

Just two months earlier, after Bronny’s struggles early in the season—where he averaged nearly nonexistent stats of 0.3 points and assists—Smith had urged LeBron to reconsider allowing Bronny to play at the NBA level. At that point, he emphasized the importance of developing skills in the G League before stepping onto the NBA stage.

Fans on social media have noted Smith’s changeable opinions, with some expressing skepticism toward his rapid shift. Many questioned the validity of his earlier arguments, suggesting that his critique was unfounded given the recent improvement in Bronny’s gameplay.

A Family Legacy in the Balance

LeBron James has actively supported his son throughout the young athlete’s journey, often downplaying the pressure of his last name. After witnessing Smith’s earlier calls for Bronny to move to the G League, the family has remained focused on Bronny’s development. The ongoing dialogue about his career path continues, leaving fans eager to see how the situation unfolds.