Where will Bronny James end up after high school?
That is the all-important question that has followed the elder son of Lakers superstar and NBA legend LeBron James throughout his journey to becoming one of the top recruits in the country. As the basketball world awaits James’s decision, let’s review the four programs which are reportedly in the running to land the coveted four-star guard.
In recent months, James has impressed recruiters with his play in various star-studded exhibitions since his standout high school career came to an end on March 7. The former Sierra Canyon star recorded 15 points and four assists in 19 minutes during the McDonald’s All-American Game on March 28, and he followed that effort with an appearance at the Nike Hoops Summit in Portland in April.
As of Friday, James remains the only uncommitted men’s McDonald’s All-American, although numerous schools have expressed interest in the 6’3”, 190-pound standout. With the speculation surrounding his decision hitting a fever pitch, let’s take a look at the four schools reportedly on James’s radar, according to 24/7 Sports:
Ohio State
LeBron James isn’t shy about his Ohio State fandom, and it’s fair to say the Buckeyes would be extremely pleased to land a commitment from Bronny James.
The Buckeyes’ interest in James has been well-documented, with the program making headlines in September by offering him a scholarship following his unofficial visit to the school.
Given LeBron’s longtime support for the most prominent program in his home state, OSU could be the preferred landing spot for the 18-year-old to continue his basketball career.
USC
Of course, Bronny could opt to stay close to his family in Los Angeles and play for Southern California, a school believed by some to be the favorite for his services.
Although Bronny was born in Cleveland, he has spent the past several years living in L.A., which very possibly could influence his decision. Not to mention, the Trojans, who offered a Bronny a scholarship last summer, have been public about their recruitment of the young standout on numerous occasions, including a ringing show of support from top commit and ’23 No. 1 recruit Isaiah Collier in March.
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Oregon
Oregon also has long been linked to James, due in part to his famous father’s connection to Nike co-founder and Oregon alum Phil Knight. To take it a step further, Bronny’s own Nike ties were fortified after he signed an endorsement deal with the company in October.
To date, the Ducks are the only team on this list who have yet to offer a James a spot on the roster, according to 247. Still, the program figures to remain as an intriguing option as Bronny zeroes in on a decision.
Memphis
Rounding out the list is Memphis, which is set to enter its sixth season under former NBA star Penny Hardaway.
Memphis reportedly has been recruiting James since last summer, although the program is considered a long shot to land Bronny. Hardaway, who faced LeBron during his career and is considered to be one of his influences, enjoyed an up-close and personal look at Bronny in the past year after he played with Hardaway’s son Ashton on the California Basketball Club team last summer and at Sierra Canyon this past season.
