USC Basketball: Stephen A. Smith Weighs In On Bronny James' NBA Decision

The longtime sports analyst weighs in on the Bronny topic.

Feb 1, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans guard Bronny James (6) reacts during a last / Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

Former USC star freshman Bromnny James entered his name in the NBA Draft and the transfer portal. Bronny's time in SoCal may have come to an end, and although it wasn't as eventful as we thought it'd be, he has a chance to redeem himself next season, whether that is in the NBA or with another program.

All eyes will continue to be on James as he navigates the next step of his career. James is the topic of discussion on many sports talk shows like First Take. In a segment with First Take's Kendrick Perkins and Stephen A. Smith, both gave their take on what Bronny should do next. Stephen A. says he believes the best thing for the 19-year-old to do is continue his college career and build up his draft status for possibly next year's draft.

"I don't know that. I'm not saying that it isn't. I didn't watch him play in high school; all I've ever seen of him was highlights because I knew that he would be judged with an extra level of scrutiny he doesn't deserve... Bronny James putting himself to enter the NBA draft with the numbers that he has combined with his questionable health for the moment inevitably, what that means is that you're doing it because you're Bronny James, you're the son of LeBron James, and that's going to warrant consideration. How much of a chance are people going to give him in terms of judging him accurately? I'm saying this because he is who he is... those things are the kind of things that are going to elevate the scrutiny coming Bronny James' way, and that's why I don't know if the best thing for him might have been, get another season under your belt when you're fully healthy, showcase those skillsets that Kendrick Perkins and others have talked about and boom. I'm saying at the end, I'd love to see him do something at the collegiate level."

James's time at USC was nothing to marvel at. He averaged less than five points per game (4.8), 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 36.6% from the field and 26.7% from beyond the arc. He only scored over ten points three times in his freshman season and had four zero-point games. His game goes behind the offense, as he's shown flashes of being a tremendous defender and an amazing athlete.

Nonetheless, it's clear he is not ready for the next and should consider going to a school where he will thrive and get better. The ultimate end goal seems to be the NBA; however, the time is not now to test those waters. Bronny should develop his game at the right school and grow as a basketball player and person.

James' decision will be a much anticipated one.