LeBron James Breaks Silence with Emotional Message to Bryce James After Shocking College Decision
The James family has had an eventful week filled with milestones and exciting developments. NBA legend LeBron James celebrated his 40th birthday on Monday, cementing his status as the first player in league history to play in the NBA as both a teenager and a 40-year-old. Meanwhile, his eldest son, Bronny James, delivered an impressive performance, scoring a team-high 23 points in a South Bay Lakers game on Saturday. Not to be outdone, Bryce James, LeBron’s youngest son, made a significant decision about his future, committing to play college basketball at Arizona under head coach Tommy Lloyd.
Bryce announced his decision on social media, a post that was quickly shared by LeBron on Instagram. The proud father celebrated the moment with an emotional message: “DOWN!!!!!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS MAXIMUS!! SO PROUD OF YOU!!! #JamesGang”
Bryce James: A Promising Talent
Bryce James, a three-star shooting guard in the class of 2025, hails from California powerhouse Sierra Canyon High School, known for producing top basketball talent. His commitment to Arizona makes him the second recruit in the Wildcats’ 2025 class, which 247Sports currently ranks as the No. 50 recruiting class in the nation.
Bryce’s journey to this point has been one of growth and perseverance. While he’s not yet a dominant force on the court, his performance on the Nike EYBL circuit this past spring showed flashes of potential. Playing for Strive For Greatness, Bryce averaged:
– 6.9 points per game
– 2.2 rebounds per game
– 39% shooting from the field
– 36.8% accuracy from beyond the arc
At the prestigious Nike Peach Jam, Bryce posted modest numbers, averaging 5.6 points per game across five contests.
Overcoming Challenges
Bryce’s senior season at Sierra Canyon began on a challenging note, as he missed the first nine games due to an undisclosed injury. Upon his return, he found himself coming off the bench for the highly competitive high school program. Despite these obstacles, Bryce’s commitment to improving his game and his decision to join Arizona demonstrates his determination to forge his own path.
According to Jordan Divens, National Basketball Editor at MaxPreps, Bryce has shown resilience and growth, traits that will serve him well in the collegiate ranks.
Why Arizona?
Bryce chose Arizona over offers from Ohio State and Duquesne, with additional interest from USC. A key factor in his decision was head coach Tommy Lloyd’s reputation for player development. Lloyd’s patient and strategic approach has helped numerous players transition successfully to the next level, making Arizona an ideal fit for Bryce’s aspirations.
While it’s unclear whether Bryce will be a one-and-done player like his older brother Bronny, his time at Arizona will provide an opportunity to refine his skills and prepare for the professional stage.
A Big Week for the James Family
Bryce’s commitment is yet another monumental moment for the James family, adding to the list of achievements that have made the “#JamesGang” a household name.
– LeBron James: Celebrated his 40th birthday and continues to break records as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
– Bronny James: Delivered a standout performance with the South Bay Lakers, showcasing his potential as he navigates his professional basketball journey.
– Bryce James: Took a significant step forward in his basketball career by committing to a top collegiate program.
What’s Next for Bryce?
As Bryce joins Arizona, he will have the opportunity to grow under Tommy Lloyd’s guidance and compete in one of the most respected basketball programs in the nation. The Wildcats’ system is well-suited for developing young talent, and Bryce’s size, shooting ability, and work ethic give him a solid foundation to build upon.
While it remains to be seen whether Bryce will follow in Bronny’s footsteps as a one-and-done player or opt for a longer collegiate career, one thing is certain: the spotlight will continue to shine brightly on him.
Bryce James’ commitment to Arizona is more than just a milestone for the young shooting guard—it’s a testament to the James family’s enduring legacy in basketball. While LeBron’s remarkable career and Bronny’s ongoing journey are already the stuff of legends, Bryce’s decision signals the beginning of a new chapter.
As he steps into this next phase, Bryce will undoubtedly face challenges, but with the support of his family and the Arizona Wildcats program, he has every opportunity to succeed. For the James family, the future remains as bright as ever, both on and off the court.
