Bryce James has committed to Arizona Men’s Basketball, he announced on social media.

Arizona is set to welcome a potential star, as Bryce James, the 17-year-old son of NBA legend LeBron James, has committed to the Wildcats for his college basketball career. This announcement, made on New Year’s Day via Instagram, has been the talk of the basketball world, especially with the big-name schools Bryce could have chosen, including Ohio State and Duquesne.

Why Did Bryce James Choose Arizona?

While Bryce James may not be considered a top-tier prospect in the 2025 class, his decision to commit to Arizona is a strategic one. Despite being overshadowed by his older brother, Bronny James, who recently joined the Los Angeles Lakers after a season at USC, Bryce has built a solid reputation as a skilled player with clear fundamentals. His decision to choose Arizona over other programs, including Ohio State and Duquesne, was driven by a mix of factors, including the coaching staff, the program’s development opportunities, and a chance to grow away from the intense scrutiny that comes with being LeBron James’ son.

Arizona’s head coach, Tommy Lloyd, played a significant role in Bryce’s decision. According to reports from WildcatAuthority.com, Bryce was drawn to Lloyd’s ability to develop players and his patience with the growth process. This aspect of the program is likely appealing to Bryce, who is looking for the time and space to develop his skills and carve out his own identity in the game, much like his brother Bronny did at USC.

Bryce’s commitment also carries the added benefit of playing for a program with a winning tradition, and the opportunity to thrive under the guidance of a coach known for his player development. LeBron James, a proud father, expressed his support for his son’s decision on social media, affirming that Bryce is “100% committed” to the Wildcats.

Bryce James Scouting Report: What to Expect from the Arizona Commit

Ranked as a three-star shooting guard prospect and the No. 204 player in the 2025 class by On3’s Industry Rankings, Bryce James is considered a solid prospect with potential for growth. Standing 6’4″ and weighing 190 pounds, Bryce has the physical tools to become a capable player. His strong frame and shooting ability, particularly from the corner, make him an asset as a floor spacer.

However, experts have noted areas where Bryce needs to develop further. While his fundamentals are strong, he will need to improve his strength and work on creating his own offense. On3’s scouting report highlights that, unlike his brother Bronny, Bryce’s game is more focused on playing off the ball, which may allow him to find a more defined role within Arizona’s offense.

247Sports’ analysis adds that Bryce may not be the dynamic athlete or playmaker some expect, but his fundamentals are solid, and his upside as a shooter makes him a promising prospect for the Wildcats. Bryce’s game in high school at Sierra Canyon—where Bronny also played—showcased his ability to play within a structured system and contribute in specific areas of the game, but the key will be his continued development at the collegiate level.

Bryce James Joins a New Generation of NBA Sons Making Noise in College Basketball

Bryce James is part of a new wave of young basketball talent that includes the sons of former NBA players making waves on the recruiting scene. He will be joining players like Alijah Arenas, the son of NBA legend Gilbert Arenas, and Kiyan Anthony, the son of Carmelo Anthony, as the next generation of prospects aiming to build their legacies in the shadow of their famous fathers.

The competition at Arizona will certainly be fierce, but the chance to grow and improve under a coach with a track record of developing NBA talent makes it a solid choice for Bryce. His decision to join the Wildcats might not have the immediate flash of other top recruits, but with time and development, he could become a standout player in college basketball.

What’s Next for Bryce James?

As Bryce James embarks on his college journey, the pressure to succeed will undoubtedly follow him, but with the support of his family and a development-focused program at Arizona, he’s in a prime position to grow as a player. His commitment to Arizona signals a desire for stability and the opportunity to evolve, rather than jumping into a program with high expectations from the start. The basketball world will be watching as he strives to carve out his own path and prove that he’s more than just the son of LeBron James.

Ultimately, this decision may define his career, and Arizona’s coaching staff will play a crucial role in helping him reach his full potential. The Wildcats are adding a promising prospect to their roster, and Bryce James has the chance to make his own mark in college basketball.