Bronny James has faced criticism even before entering the NBA, especially since joining his father LeBron James on the Lakers.
Critics were particularly vocal after Bronny’s debut in the Summer League, where he scored just four points on 2-of-9 shooting.
Such early criticism could easily affect the confidence of most young players. However, LeBron James believes his son won’t be bothered by the negative comments about him.
“I’m not sure if people really understand Bronny,” LeBron told ESPN when asked about the criticism Bronny has faced after a USA Basketball practice on Sunday. “He doesn’t care.”
LeBron added that while he “cares a bit” about what critics say, both about Bronny and himself, it bothered him early in his career after being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft.
“When I started [as a rookie], I wanted people to like me, and some of the things people said about me bothered me early in my career,” LeBron explained. “[Bronny] doesn’t give a f—. He doesn’t care about anyone. He doesn’t even pay attention to that stuff. He’s really chill.”
As LeBron pointed out, Bronny’s attitude is quite different from his own throughout his career.
“He’s completely different from his dad. His dad would say something [to respond to critics]. Bro doesn’t care,” LeBron said. “He really doesn’t care about anything that’s said about him.”
LeBron finds this aspect impressive about his son.
“Imagine being a kid born into a situation where your dad is super famous, wealthy, and you still have the drive to achieve things for yourself,” LeBron said. “I don’t know if I could have done that if our roles were reversed.
“When I was growing up, I didn’t have a choice. I really had to succeed for myself, my mom, my family, my hometown, and my city.
“Bronny has all the choices in the world. If Bronny wanted to stop now or never play basketball, or just wanted to be a gamer or chef or whatever, he could have done that…
“People don’t realize how difficult that is and the dedication it takes for him to be in the NBA, especially after heart surgery less than a year ago. He’s a special kid.”
LeBron believes this mindset positions Bronny well for his development in the NBA. And his ability to ignore negative criticism should help him prove himself as a professional player.
“He doesn’t care. Really, it doesn’t bother him,” LeBron reiterated.
