NBA News: South Bay Lakers HC gets brutally honest on Bronny James’ G League struggles

Seam NBA As the regular season progresses, the G League is just getting started, giving young players a platform to showcase their skills and compete for a shot in the NBA. Among them are Bronny Jamesson of LeBron Jameswho experiences growing pains in his first outings.

However, the South Bay Lakers are off to an impressive start. With a 2-0 record in their first two games, the Los Angeles-based team looks to make a strong impact this season. Behind outstanding performances from players like Quincy Olivari, the South Bay Lakers are establishing themselves as early contenders.

Despite his high-profile entry into professional basketball, Bronny James has faced challenges adjusting to the rigors of the G League. In his second match, his performances did not live up to expectations, although he continues to adapt to the team’s style of play.

South Bay Lakers head coach Zack Guthrie acknowledged the challenges Bronny faces. “It’s about competing at a high level and playing the right way,” Guthrie said. “We need to raise our collective intensity on the ball. It’s difficult when you haven’t played at a high level your whole life, you have to learn to be physical, dictate the tempo and adapt to modern offenses. In the IG League there are no days off; every possession matters.”

Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers warms up prior to the start of an NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center on November 16, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Bronny’s performance in second G League game

Although the South Bay Lakers secured a solid victory, LeBron James’ son, Bronny, was not a deciding factor in the outcome. Despite showing glimpses of his potential, he struggled to maintain consistency throughout the game. Bronny opened strong with a smooth two-point shot from the paint and an impressive block, but his impact faded as NBA G League action wore on.

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Bronny’s second game against the Stockton Kings highlighted his growing pains. Although he started off strong with a two-point basket in the paint and an impressive block, his consistency waned as the game wore on. In 25 minutes of play, Bronny recorded 4 points, going 2-of-10 from the field and 0-of-2 from beyond the arc. He also contributed 2 assists, 2 rebounds and committed 1 turnover.

Quincy Olivari shines as South Bay’s leader

While some fans expected Bronny to take the lead for South Bay, Quincy Olivari has emerged as the team’s outstanding player. His stellar play has made Coach Guthrie’s job easier and given the Lakers a reliable offensive force early in the season.

Olivari turned in another outstanding performance against Stockton, scoring 24 points in 41 minutes. He shot 6-of-13 from the field, including 3-of-6 from three-point range, and was a perfect 5-of-5 from the free throw line. In addition, he tallied 3 rebounds, 9 assists and 3 turnovers, solidifying his role as the team’s anchor.

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“When you score at Olivari’s level, you have to adapt and find different ways to contribute,” Guthrie explained. “We put him in different situations to challenge him, but credit also goes to the defense. If they blow, it means someone else is open and he learns to make the right decisions.”

South Bay Lakers’ balanced approach and Olivaris’ leadership have set the tone for a promising season. As LeBron James’ son continues to adjust, the team looks to build on its early momentum.