Bronny James on his main focus this offseason
He didn't play in the Los Angeles Lakers' first game of the California Classic on Saturday, but he is expected to participate at some point, and summer league play should give a glimpse into what type of player he will be this coming season.
He told reporters that he is focusing on the defensive end of the court and on becoming a difference-maker in that department.
'It's definitely made me think about being more aggressive on that end of the floor, but I can't lose that defensive drive that will get me on the floor because there's gonna be guys that can score 15, 20 a game,' the younger James said. 'I'm most likely not going to be that guy right now. To get myself on the floor, I've got to be a defensive menace. That's my main focus, getting conditioned this year. It's been shown that I know how to score the ball a little bit, I'm staying true to that, but also focusing on the defensive end.'
While the 20-year-old could become a spark plug on the offensive end and has shown signs of doing just that, he has been lauded over the last couple years for his defense, which could be more developed than his offensive game at this point.
With his ample athleticism and defensive instincts, perhaps he could carve out a reputation as someone who makes a living on that end of the floor.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
USA Today
41 minutes ago
- USA Today
Will Riley: Wizards sign 21st overall pick to rookie scale contract
Former Illinois forward Will Riley, the 21st pick in the 2025 NBA draft, signed his rookie-scale contract with the Washington Wizards on Sunday, according to the official NBA transaction report. Riley was the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year after averaging 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists on 43.2% shooting from the field as a freshman. He logged nine starts, finishing third on the team in scoring after registering six 20-point performances. He will make $3,512,520 next season, according to Spotrac. The 6-foot-8 standout helped Illinois reach the NCAA Tournament for the fifth straight year this past season as the sixth seed. He set a freshman program record with 22 points and four assists on March 21 in a win over Xavier in the first round. Riley was projected to be a first-round pick because of his size, scoring potential and ability as a passer. He was also able to create separation for himself, with his array of dribble moves, jab steps and step-backs on the perimeter. The Canadian also proved a capable floor spacer, despite shooting 32.6% on 4.1 attempts per game from beyond the arc. He worked extensively on his shot throughout the predraft process and will look to showcase it with the Wizards next season. Riley is expected to suit up for the Wizards for at least five games in the NBA Summer League, beginning on Friday against the Phoenix Suns (9 p.m. EDT, ESPN).
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Celtics' Derrick White Post Turns Heads After Warriors Trade Report
Celtics' Derrick White Post Turns Heads After Warriors Trade Report originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Derrick White has become one of the Boston Celtics' most dependable pieces since arriving in a trade from the San Antonio Spurs back in 2022. The versatile guard has grown into an elite two-way player, earning All-Defensive Team honors while helping Boston to a championship in 2024. Advertisement White's strong play continued throughout the 2024-25 season, where he provided a steady presence on the court, alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Despite his importance, White's name has popped up in recent trade chatter as Boston continues to prepare for the absence of Tatum, who suffered an Achilles rupture during the playoffs. Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9).© David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports NBA insider Logan Murdock mentioned White as a potential fit for the Golden State Warriors, suggesting Golden State views him as a high-impact veteran who could slide right into their system. On Sunday, however, the Celtics made an interesting post on social media that caught the attention of Boston fans amid the growing rumors. Advertisement 'One year since D-White LOCKED IN 🔒,' the team posted on X, acknowledging the one-year anniversary of White's extension with the franchise. While the post didn't make clear whether Boston intends to keep White long-term, Celtics fans wasted no time letting their feelings be known in the comments section. 'KEEP HIM,' one fan urged. 'Do not mess that up,' another fan added. 'He ain't going nowhere,' a third fan mentioned. 'Best decision we've made along with the Jays,' another fan posted. 'He a Celtic forever,' another fan said. "yessssssir .. Celtic 4 life!!" one wrote. Related: Celtics Fans React to Jayson Tatum's 4-Word Message on Friday Related: Al Horford to Warriors Receives Update After Lakers' Decision This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
USA Today
an hour ago
- USA Today
Wizards sign 43rd overall pick Jamir Watkins to two-way contract
No. 43 overall pick Jamir Watkins signed a two-way contract on Sunday with the Washington Wizards, according to the official NBA transaction report. Watkins was an All-ACC second-team selection last season at Florida State, averaging 18.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.2 steals on 32.1% shooting from 3-point range as a senior. He ranked 11th in the country among all players in free throws (183). The 6-foot-6 forward registered 12 20-point games, including a season-high 30 points, six rebounds and three steals on Nov. 9 in a win against Rice. He was the only player in the country to attempt at least 20 free throws in a game multiple times. Watkins was highly touted as a draft prospect this year because of his scoring, ability to get into the paint and defensive versatility. He was one of the top performers at the combine in May and measured in with a 6-foot, 11 1/4-inch wingspan in the anthropometric testing. The 24-year-old will split his time next season between the NBA and the Capital City Go-Go in the G League. He is eligible to be active for up to 50 games in the NBA and will earn $636,435, which is equal to 50% of the minimum salary applicable to a player with zero years of service. Watkins is expected to suit up for the Wizards for at least five games in the NBA Summer League, beginning on Friday against the Phoenix Suns (9 p.m. EDT, ESPN).
