Bronny James’ NBA Contract with the Lakers: How Much Will LeBron’s Son Earn in 2024/25?
Bronny James, the son of NBA legend LeBron James, has become a hot topic in the basketball world. While he might not be the most highly anticipated player from the 2024 NBA Draft, his name and family legacy make him one of the most talked-about rookies.
Here’s an in-depth look at Bronny James’ contract with the Los Angeles Lakers and his projected earnings for the upcoming season.
Bronny James Signs Rookie Contract with the Lakers
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Bronny James will sign a long-term contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. Unlike many second-round picks, Bronny is expected to join the main Lakers roster immediately rather than spending time in the G-League.
Rookie salaries in the NBA are determined by draft position. Players selected earlier in the draft typically earn higher base salaries. Since Bronny was selected 55th overall, his starting salary is expected to be lower than most of his peers from the 2024 class.
Why Bronny James Is an Exception
Despite his draft position, Bronny isn’t your average second-round pick. His agent, Rich Paul, made it clear before the 2024 NBA Draft that Bronny would not accept a “two-way contract” – a deal that offers a lower salary and often requires players to split time between the NBA and G-League.
This bold stance may have deterred some teams, but the Los Angeles Lakers were willing to meet the demands. As a result, Bronny is expected to secure a higher salary than typical second-round picks.
Comparing Rookie Salaries in the NBA
To better understand Bronny’s potential earnings, let’s compare his situation to other second-round picks:
- Jalen Pickett (32nd pick in 2023): Signed a 4-year, $8.2 million contract, with $5.8 million guaranteed.
- Chris Livingston (final pick in 2023): Secured a 4-year, $7.6 million deal, with $3.1 million guaranteed.
- Two-way players: Earned approximately $560,000 in the 2023/24 season, about half of the minimum rookie salary.
Given these figures, Bronny James’ guaranteed salary for the 2024/25 season is estimated to be around $1.2 million annually. If he performs well and cements his spot in the Lakers’ main rotation, his earnings could climb significantly.
Bronny’s Lucrative Off-Court Potential
While Bronny’s NBA salary might seem modest compared to other players, his ability to secure lucrative endorsement deals sets him apart. As the son of LeBron James, Bronny is expected to attract sponsorships and partnerships with major brands, adding millions to his total earnings.
Additionally, his association with Rich Paul, one of the most influential agents in the sports industry, ensures that Bronny’s financial future is in capable hands.
Bronny James and His Bright Future
Although Bronny wasn’t a top draft pick, joining the Los Angeles Lakers offers him an incredible opportunity to grow alongside some of the league’s best players. With a guaranteed $1.2 million annual salary, he has a solid financial foundation to build upon.
Bronny also carries the weight of his family name and the expectation to follow in LeBron James’ legendary footsteps. While these pressures are immense, they come with the potential for enormous rewards both on and off the court.
Bronny James is poised to make an impact not just as an NBA player but also as a marketing phenomenon. With a guaranteed salary of $1.2 million, endorsement opportunities, and a chance to learn from one of the best organizations in basketball, Bronny is well-positioned for success.
The Los Angeles Lakers have shown confidence in Bronny, betting on his talent and the influence of his father’s legacy. Only time will tell if he can rise to the challenge and create a legacy of his own in the NBA.
