LeBron James was front row, as was Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, for Bronny James' highly anticipated NCAA debut with USC.
Special beginnings since the son of the “King” had suffered a cardiac arrest during training during the summer. Subsequently operated on for a heart defect, he was able to resume his basketball career.
“I just want to say I’m grateful for everything”, declared Bronny James after the meetingfor his first comments to the press since July. “The Mayo Clinic, everything they helped me do, my parents, my siblings for supporting me through this difficult time in my life. I want to thank everyone who helped me through this ordeal. I also want to thank my coach, my teammates and all my other coaches. They have been with me from the beginning and I want to tell them that I am grateful to them.”
Coming off the bench, Bronny James compiled 4 points on 1/3 shooting, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 1 block in 17 minutes on the floor. The fans exploded when he made his first field goal of his collegiate career, and he definitely recalled his father when he made that “chasedown block” that is a family signature.
“Everyone went through a lot of emotions”
Nevertheless, USC was surprised (84-79) by the modest Long Beach State team in overtime…
“Everyone went through a lot of emotions”explained Andy Enfield, USC coach. “Bronny in particular. He handled the situation very well. And any time you're going through such an emotional situation, it's nice to have teammates and staff who care about you. I think his teammates did a good job with Bronny, he’s back and we’re all excited for him.”
After what he has experienced, defeat clearly takes second place. Bronny James can now get back on track with his career, and his life, with a serenity that impresses his teammates.
” It is made for this “ explains Boogie Ellis. “I feel like he’s taking it in.” He worked and he’s a great player. We're going to bring him back and he's going to continue to be part of the rotation, but he's made for that. »
