The Los Angeles Lakers secured their first victory of the 2024 summer league with a nail-biting 87-86 win over the Atlanta Hawks. This victory not only marked the team's breakthrough after a five-game losing streak but also highlighted the potential and poise of rookie guard Bronny James.
James, the 55th overall pick in the 2024 draft, played a pivotal role in this tightly contested game. He started with confidence, sinking a 17-foot pull-up jumper, setting the tone for his performance. Despite struggling in the initial summer league games, averaging 4.3 points and missing all 15 three-point attempts, James found his rhythm against the Hawks, scoring 12 points, including a crucial three-pointer that tied the game late.
"My mom, my dad really help me, encouraging me to stay focused and keep being myself. So I feel like that's a big part of how I came out [tonight]," James reflected after the game. His determination was evident, making 5-of-11 field goal attempts, including 2-of-5 from beyond the arc, and proving his mettle under pressure.
The Lakers' victory was solidified by a critical defensive stop in the closing seconds, demonstrating their resilience and defensive prowess. Center Colin Castleton was instrumental, contributing 17 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, and two steals, showcasing his all-around ability and leadership on the court.
Castleton praised the young guard's growing confidence, saying, "I think he's stepping into a good role. It takes a little bit of time. He has a lot of pressure, a lot of things on him. So he has a great mindset. He's a great kid, great teammate, and we love being around him. Everybody in the organization loves being around him and he took great shots tonight and just got a good rhythm."
The absence of major players from both teams added an interesting dynamic to the game. Zacharie Risacher, the Hawks’ No. 1 overall pick, and Dalton Knecht, the Lakers' first-round draft pick, did not play, giving other players a chance to step up. Castleton and James seized the opportunity to shine, leading the Lakers to a morale-boosting victory.
The significance of this win extends beyond just the stats. Jaylen Brown, who was previously seen critiquing James during the Lakers' loss to the Boston Celtics, offered a more supportive perspective following the victory. "It's a flex to have your son alongside you in the NBA. It reflects greatness and longevity! Bronny has all the tools around him to be successful. I look forward to watching his growth," Brown said, highlighting the legacy and future potential of the James family in the league.
Agent Rich Paul provided further insight, addressing Brown's earlier comments. "You can't take everybody's opinion and try to turn it against him or think that he's a bad person. At least [Brown] is someone who is actually in the league. There's a lot of 'experts' with no expertise; he's actually an expert with expertise. So, if he has that opinion, he can have that opinion. I know Jaylen. I know he doesn't mean that with any malice. He was just having a conversation."
The Lakers' coaching staff has remained supportive of the young guard, with assistant coach Dane Johnson encouraging James to continue taking his shots. "He had those same shots previously, and he just missed them. So, we're going to encourage him to keep taking those. If he's open and we have an open catch-and-shoot [shot], we want him to shoot those, along with everybody else. Open catch-and-shoot threes are what we're looking for. Even if you're not making them, believe in yourself, have confidence in yourself," Johnson emphasized.
As the Lakers prepare for their upcoming games in Las Vegas against the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Chicago Bulls, Bronny James remains optimistic and focused. Reflecting on the influence of his famous father, LeBron James, he shared, "I feel like playing together [and] going to work together every day is just going to build on the relationship we already have. Build that connection, maybe even stronger. But I'm excited to get to work with my dad."
The Lakers' latest victory is a testament to the promising future of their young roster, the unwavering support within the team, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching as Bronny James and his teammates continue their journey in the summer league, eager to see how they build on this hard-fought triumph.