Stephen A. Smith isn’t holding back when it comes to LeBron James and his son, Bronny James, playing in the NBA. Following Bronny’s latest performance with the Los Angeles Lakers against the Philadelphia 76ers, Smith had a strong message for the NBA superstar: “Stop this!”
During Wednesday’s episode of First Take, Smith made it clear that he was going to be “respectful” of LeBron’s legendary career before diving into Bronny’s underwhelming performance this season.
In the Lakers’ 118-104 loss to the Sixers, Bronny saw 15 minutes of action but failed to score a single point. His stat line included just one assist and three rebounds. To make matters worse, Tyrese Maxey exposed multiple weaknesses in Bronny’s game, raising further questions about whether he’s truly NBA-ready.
While Bronny has shown glimpses of potential in the G League, his struggles at the professional level have been glaring… and Smith has had enough.
Smith didn’t mince words when addressing LeBron directly.
“I am pleading with LeBron James as a father. Stop this. Stop this,” Smith said passionately. “We all know Bronny James is in the NBA because of his dad. Opening night, the Griffeys are in attendance, father and son playing together… an amazing story. But then reality sets in.”
Smith emphasized that while Bronny has talent, he belongs in the G League to refine his skills before playing at the highest level.
“I love what we’re seeing from him in the G League… because that’s where he belongs. He needs to hone his skills, get better, and legitimately earn his spot,” Smith continued. “I am rooting for Bronny James. It would be cruel to root against him. But he is LeBron’s son, and that comes with immense scrutiny.”
Smith also highlighted Bronny’s lackluster numbers, pointing out that in 13 games, he’s averaging just 0.3 points, 0.3 assists, and 0.4 rebounds per game. Additionally, in 44 total minutes, he has scored only four points, shooting 1-for-16 from the field and 0-for-7 from three-point range.
“LeBron, you know what these numbers mean. You know what this is doing to your son,” Smith said. “You know there are players grinding in the G League, in Europe, fighting for an NBA opportunity, and you’re exposing your son like this?”
Despite the criticism, Lakers head coach JJ Redick expressed confidence in Bronny’s development, acknowledging his rough performance but believing he will improve with time.
“He didn’t play well, but he’s been great in the G League,” Redick said. “I have confidence in him, but obviously, he didn’t provide that at a high level tonight.”
As the debate over Bronny’s place in the NBA intensifies, all eyes will be on how the Lakers handle his minutes moving forward. Will LeBron take Smith’s advice and let his son develop in the G League, or will Bronny continue to struggle under the bright lights of the NBA? One thing is certain… Stephen A. Smith isn’t backing down.
