Bronny James Lands Unprecedented Deal: 4 Years, $7.9 Million for the 55th Pick
Bronny James just inked a remarkable 4-year, $7.9 million contract, a stark contrast to last year’s 55th pick, who signed a two-way contract worth $560,000.
Four years and $7.9 million? It’s one thing for LeBron Sr. to ensure his son gets drafted with what might have been a throwaway pick, but securing three guaranteed years in the league with a fourth-year team option is unprecedented for a second-round draft pick.
For comparison:
- LeBron James as the No. 1 overall pick in 2003: $18.78M
- – Bronny James as the No. 55 overall pick in 2024: $7.9M
Bronny James has signed his rookie contract with the Lakers, per sources: Four years and $7.9 million. Team option in fourth season. https://t.co/NcgV8tgpnW
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 3, 2024
While I don’t see anything wrong with the Lakers picking Bronny James at #55 overall, the circumstances are clear. Did Bronny deserve it on merit? Probably not, considering he averaged just 4 points per game on a sub-.500 college team and has health concerns. The media’s focus on his character and work ethic overshadows his apparent lack of standout physical attributes and skill.
Everyone understands the strategy: securing Bronny guarantees keeping LeBron James in Los Angeles, likely for the remainder of his career. The 55th pick is usually a long shot, so why not use it to retain the most famous player in the world? The extra cost seems negligible in comparison.
But let’s revisit the reality. Who was the 55th overall pick last year? That would be Isaiah Wong, a guard from the Miami Hurricanes.
Wong, the ACC Player of the Year who led Miami to the Final Four, signed a two-way contract for just $560,000. In stark contrast, Bronny is guaranteed a spot in the league for at least three years, making eight times as much money.
This disparity will undoubtedly fuel Bronny’s critics. While he may prove himself and bring value through jersey sales and his father’s continued presence in LA, the comparison to Wong is striking. Despite being a “good kid” with polite manners, Bronny’s contract highlights a significant gap in perceived merit and actual reward.