Bronny James Set To Enter NBA Draft After Forgoing College Eligibility

After much discussion from the NBA world, Clutch Sports CEO Rich Paul has confirmed that Bronny James will officially enter the 2024 NBA Draft.

“He's still at the top,” said Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul ESPN in a story published before the NCAA's 11:59 pm Eastern Time deadline.

Bronny had kept his college eligibility up until now to keep his options open, but Paul made sure he was ready to enter the NBA.

“Bronny's [draft] wide range,” said Paul ESPN. “He is a very good prospect and has a lot of room to grow. Only one party is required. I don't care where that team is — it could be No. 1 or 58 — [but] I care about the system, the development. Group strategy, opportunity and financial commitment. That is why I do not make a bilateral agreement. All teams understand that.”

Of course, Bronny who is the son of LeBron James has sparked many discussions about whether the Lakers will draft him.

“The Lakers need to look at Bronny like everyone else,” Paul said. “If they appreciate him enough and he's there, that's good. If it's not the Lakers, that's fine. I won't be upset if it isn't. Obviously people hear the conversation about father and son playing together, but that's not what we're focusing on. If it happens organically, great. Don't dwell on that.”

“I don't put unrealistic expectations on Bronny. You are far from a finished product. But he has a bad start. You are standing well. … I don't see that he can be drafted, but if it comes to the point where the circumstances are impossible and we have to not be drafted, that's fine.”

The Lakers could take James in the first or second round of the draft. The Lakers' first-round pick at No. 17 will depend on whether the Pelicans push back to 2025 or not.

LA also has the No. 55 pick in the second round.

Other than that, other teams like the Suns, Mavericks and Jazz have been rumored to be interested in signing the 19-year-old player.

READ MORE: NBA Analyst Suggests New Team Chris Paul Trade