Kendrick Perkins, NBA commentator and former player, urges ESPN and other sports media to reduce their coverage of Bronny James, LeBron James’ eldest son, who is preparing for the NBA draft.
Last month, Bronny James unexpectedly declared for the NBA draft despite experts suggesting he should stay in college. This decision has led to a media frenzy, which Perkins believes is excessive.
On a recent episode of NBA Today, Perkins voiced his discomfort with the extensive focus on Bronny, advocating for attention on players more likely to impact the NBA.
“Let me say this: we have to stop,” Perkins told the panel. “We have to stop as the media and everybody else shining a light on Bronny because there are other players that are deserving of our attention. The lottery guys are the guys who are actually going to get drafted in the first round. We’re talking about a young man that’s possibly going to go late second round or not get drafted at all.”
Perkins’ comments follow criticism from an anonymous NBA scout, as Marc J. Spears of ESPN reported. The scout doubted Bronny’s prospects, stating, “If the Lakers don’t draft him, I don’t see anyone drafting him. He should be a point guard based on his size, but he can’t run an offence. Poor man’s Davion Mitchell. He is not an NBA prospect, in my opinion.”
Perkins emphasized the need for consistent media standards, noting that other high-profile players, such as Scottie Pippen’s son, didn’t receive similar attention.
“We didn’t shine the light on Scottie Pippen’s son like this. We can’t move the goalposts when we feel like it’s convenient for us! … Look, I want Bronny to be successful,” Perkins added, “But I’m also being a realist here.”
Despite Perkins’ plea, ESPN and other networks will likely continue their extensive coverage of Bronny James as the draft approaches, driven by the substantial ratings boost such coverage provides.
As the debate continues, Bronny James remains in the spotlight, highlighting the challenges young athletes face in the media glare and raising questions about the media’s role in shaping their careers.
