USC Trojans freshman guard Bronny James, the son of Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, announced his decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining college eligibility and simultaneously entering the NCAA transfer portal in a post shared on his Instagram account Friday (April 5).
"I've had a year with some ups and downs but all added to growth for me as a man, student and athlete," James said in an official statement. "I've made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility, and will also be entering the NCAA transfer portal.
"Thank you to USC for an amazing Freshman year, and as always thankful for my family, friends, doctors, athletic trainers and fans for their support."
James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists during his freshman collegiate season, which was delayed after he suffered cardiac arrest in January. The 19-year-old rated as a five-star prospect and ranks as the No. 5 combo guard, No. 4 player from the state of California and No. 22 overall prospect for the 2023 national recruiting cycle, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings.
James is also the top-earning amateur athlete with an NIL valuation estimated at $4.9 million, according to On3.com. The Ohio native chose USC over offers from numerous schools including Duke, Kansas, Memphis and Ohio State. LeBron James has publicly expressed his interest in playing with his son before his retirement "if it's possible."