In a candid discussion on D’Angelo Russell’s The Backyard podcast, Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker shared insights about his own draft experience, inadvertently shedding light on the contrasting journey of Bronny James. Booker, reflecting on his 2015 NBA draft experience, revealed the uncertainty he faced and his hopes of being selected by the Miami Heat. “Miami is where I was hoping ’cause Miami was my best workout. I remember Pat Riley came and did the interview, and he’s like, ‘We’re looking for a Klay Thompson-type player we need to up our shooting.’ I just shot 40 in college,” Booker recalled.
Booker’s journey, marked by intense workouts and interviews, was a stark contrast to Bronny James’ process. The latter, despite not being a lottery pick or even a first-rounder, declined multiple workout invitations, a move that puzzled many within the NBA community.
The contrasting journeys of Booker and Bronny
Booker’s remarks, while not directly aimed at Bronny, highlighted a significant difference in their draft processes. Booker mentioned the importance of workouts for both teams and prospects, subtly hinting at the uniqueness of Bronny’s approach. D’Angelo Russell, who was a lock to be one of the top three picks in the 2015 draft, also shared his experience, noting that he only had pre-draft workouts with the Lakers.
Booker humorously questioned Russell, “Do you even know what a draft process looks like?” He then added, “When you top three, you do two workouts and decline all the other ones.” This statement, though made in jest, resonated with Bronny’s draft strategy. Despite not being a top prospect like Russell, Bronny declined over ten workout invitations, choosing only to meet with the Lakers and the Suns.
Bronny James unique draft strategy
Bronny James’ draft approach raised eyebrows across the league. Many teams, especially those with picks in the 20s and 30s, were keen to evaluate him but struggled to secure workouts. ESPN’s Jonathan Givony highlighted this issue, noting, “NBA teams that I talk to say they cannot get Bronny James into their building… The sense among teams is that his agent, Rich Paul, does not want him on a two-way contract, and the range he’s going to be picked—the 40-58 range—that’s where two-way contracts are handed out.”
Ultimately, Bronny was selected by the Lakers at No. 55, a move orchestrated by his agent, Rich Paul. Paul ensured that Bronny secured a substantial contract, reflecting the strategic planning behind his draft process.
Rich Paul’s calculated moves
Rich Paul’s influence on Bronny’s draft journey cannot be understated. He candidly explained the rationale behind limiting Bronny’s workout invitations. “The goal is to find a team that values your guy and try to push him to get there… My stuff is by design. I got the word out early to teams that if you plan on bringing Bronny in, here’s what you need to know: If you won’t give him a real deal, there’s nothing to talk about. It’s hard to get real development on a two-way deal,” Paul told ESPN.
This strategy paid off, as Bronny secured a 4-year $7.9 million contract with the Lakers, fulfilling LeBron James’ dream of playing alongside his son. This remarkable deal stands out, especially for a player who wasn’t a top prospect and faced uncertainties about his NBA future.
Was Bronny’s path always set?
Speculation abounds that Bronny’s path to the NBA was predetermined, largely influenced by his father’s presence in the league and Rich Paul’s strategic maneuvers. Former Warriors GM Bob Myers revealed during draft night, “Right now, Rich Paul is calling teams, [saying], ‘Don’t take Bronny James.’ He’s telling them to not take him. Saying, ‘Don’t take him. If you take him, he’s going to Australia.’ So, he has a plan and he has a place.”
Paul’s actions suggest a deliberate plan to ensure Bronny joined the Lakers, aligning with LeBron James’ desire to play with his son. This orchestration raises questions about the fairness and transparency of the draft process, as other prospects typically do not have such predetermined paths.
A Father’s dream fulfilled
LeBron James‘ dream of playing basketball alongside his son has finally come true, all thanks to Rich Paul’s strategic maneuvers. Bronny’s controversial journey highlights the special dynamics involved when a player is the son of an NBA legend. As Booker reflected on his draft struggles, it became evident that Bronny’s path was unlike any other, marked by strategic decisions and influential connections.
The narrative surrounding Bronny James’ entry into the NBA continues to spark debates, with many questioning whether his journey was fair or overly manipulated. Nonetheless, his presence in the league alongside his father is a historic moment, adding a new chapter to the NBA’s rich history.