NBA fans lose it as Bronny James opens Summer League debut with a statement slam
The California Classic tipped off with some heat this weekend, and while the Los Angeles Lakers took a tough loss to the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, the real buzz started brewing on Sunday — all thanks to Bronny James.
After missing the opener due to a minutes restriction, Bronny made his Summer League debut against the Miami Heat, and it didn’t take long for the 19-year-old to light up the court. Just minutes in, the guard snatched a steal and rocketed into transition, finishing with a jaw-dropping dunk that had NBA fans — and the internet — roaring.
“BRONNY JAMES WITH THE HUGE THROWDOWN!” the NBA’s official account posted on X.
Social media couldn’t keep calm
The highlight spread like wildfire. One fan called it “Sierra Canyon Bronny,” another added, “I know he got Bron’s genes and I’ve seen him liftoff before, but that was unexpected as hell.” And then there was the one that nailed the sentiment perfectly:
“Na, that was LeBron James.”
Bronny wasn’t done after that slam. Before being subbed out about four minutes into the first quarter, he drained a smooth three-pointer — a clean, confident stroke that reminded everyone this wasn’t just a highlight reel moment. This was a young player building his NBA foundation.
A summer spotlight, and Bronny’s ready for it
Bronny is expected to be a major part of the Lakers’ Summer League squad as action shifts to Las Vegas. While his rookie year had its growing pains — limited minutes on the main roster but impressive runs in the G League — the 2025 Summer League feels like his coming-out party.
And let’s not forget: the Lakers are stacked this summer with guys like Dalton Knecht, DJ Steward, RJ Davis, and Cole Swider. But on Sunday, all eyes were on No. 6.
With his confidence rising and his game maturing, Bronny James might just be writing his own legacy — one dunk at a time.