NBA commentator and former player Kendrick Perkins has called on ESPN and other sports media outlets to reduce their coverage of Bronny James, LeBron James’ eldest son, as he prepares to enter the NBA draft.
Last month, Bronny James made headlines with his unexpected decision to declare for the NBA draft, despite widespread expert opinion suggesting he should remain in college. The move has sparked a flurry of media attention, much of which Perkins finds unwarranted.
In a recent episode of NBA Today, Perkins expressed discomfort with the extensive coverage surrounding Bronny, advocating instead for a focus on players more likely to make a significant impact in 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, the guys that 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 come in the wake of harsh criticism from an anonymous NBA scout, as reported by Marc J. Spears of ESPN. The scout was skeptical about 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 offense. Poor man’s Davion Mitchell. He is not an NBA prospect in my opinion.”
Perkins spoke out for the other players
Bronny James makes 12 three pointers in a row at NBA combine
Perkins emphasized the need for consistent standards in media coverage, pointing out that other high-profile players, such as Scottie Pippen’s son, did not receive the same level of 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, it is likely that ESPN and other networks will continue their extensive coverage of Bronny James as the draft approaches, largely due to the substantial ratings boost that such coverage provides.
As the debate continues, the spotlight remains firmly on Bronny James, highlighting the challenges faced by young athletes in the media glare and raising questions about the role of media in shaping their careers.
