Bronny James, fresh off scoring his first NBA points, found himself the target of media critic Jason Whitlock, who took to social media with a swipe at the 20-year-old’s accomplishment. After Bronny made his NBA debut for the Lakers in Cleveland, taking home the net from the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse as a keepsake, Whitlock mocked the gesture, comparing it to a ‘Make-a-Wish’ moment, and called James a “Make-a-Swish kid.” He even brought politics into the mix, likening Bronny to Democratic Vice-Presidential nominee Tim Walz in a dig related to Whitlock’s support for Donald Trump.
For Bronny, the moment was intended to be a milestone. Drafted 55th by the Lakers, he took the court in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, where the crowd greeted him with a standing ovation as he checked in late in the fourth quarter. He recorded 2 points, 2 assists, and a steal, showing some of the defensive promise that’s drawn scouts’ attention.
While it’s common for rookies to take home the game ball after scoring their first NBA points, the net is usually reserved for championships—a detail Whitlock zeroed in on for his critique. Whitlock’s jab sparked a social media frenzy, with fans defending Bronny and noting that the keepsake simply marked a special milestone for the young player.
LeBron James, Bronny’s father and one of the game’s greats, has been vocal about the immense pressure on his son. LeBron, who has long supported Bronny’s journey into professional basketball, acknowledged the unique challenges that come with carrying the James name, saying after the game, “The pressure is something he’s dealt with his whole life. I’m proud of him for taking it in stride.”
Bronny’s debut in Cleveland was a full-circle moment, and despite the jabs from critics, the young player received a warm reception in his home state. For the James family, it’s clear this was more than just a game—it was a memorable step in Bronny’s long-awaited NBA journey.
