When Metta World Peace spoke up about Bronny James early in the 2024-2025 season, everyone thought he was just being positive. But as the season went on, it became clear World Peace wasn’t just being supportive—he was right about the young Lakers rookie.
Bronny’s Rocky Start
As the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny James entered the league under a microscope. Being the son of LeBron James brought excitement and pressure, but early on the spotlight seemed to be crushing the 20-year-old.
In the first few months of the season, Bronny struggled to find his way. His minutes were inconsistent and his impact on the game was minimal. People were questioning if he even belonged in the NBA.
But through it all, Metta World Peace remained firm in his belief in Bronny. In an interview with TMZ on November 17, 2024, he said:
“He’s good. Bronny’s a good player. People can say what they want but at the end of the day he has an NBA body. He’s only 19. Maybe 20… My game went to the next level when I was 24. John Stockton didn’t play for the first two years. I think Bronny deserves it… He’s a rookie… Rookies play in the G League and I think it’s a good thing.”
World Peace’s words meant something, not just because he’s an NBA champion but because he’s mentored young players during their developmental years.
A Turnaround After the New Year
Fast forward to early 2025 and Bronny is starting to show why the Lakers drafted him. March 21, 2025 he had a breakout game against the Milwaukee Bucks:
- 17 points
- 5 assists
- 3 rebounds
- 7/10 from the field
- 2/4 from three
This shut up some of the critics and proved Bronny had more to offer than people thought.
G League Dominance
Bronny’s NBA minutes were still limited but he was making waves in the G League where he was consistently showing his potential. According to @NBAStatGuy_ on March 25, 2025 among players 20 or younger (min 5 games) Bronny was:
- 1st in ppg
- 1st in assists
- 1st in steals
- 2nd in defrtg
- 3rd in TS%
These numbers show Bronny’s growth and ability to adapt to pro ball. They also validate World Peace’s early confidence in him.
Why World Peace Was Right
Metta World Peace knew something that many didn’t: development takes time. Bronny’s journey wasn’t going to be defined by his first few games or even his first season. It’s been about steady improvement and learning how to thrive in the NBA.
World Peace’s own career mirrors this philosophy. He didn’t become an All-Star overnight – it took years of hard work and patience. By having Bronny go through the process including stints in the G League World Peace is showing him a path to success.
What’s Next for Bronny?
With his recent performances Bronny has proven he belongs in the NBA conversation. He may not be a star yet but his progress shows he can carve out a role for himself in the league.
LeBron’s presence on the Lakers has definitely helped Bronny adjust to the pros but it’s his own determination and skill set that will define his future.
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