By BETH HARRIS (AP Sports Writer)
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Bronny James, who spent a shortened season at Southern California due to his recovery from cardiac arrest, will be entering the NBA draft.
The 19-year-old took to his Instagram account on Friday to announce his decision to enter the transfer portal while also intending to maintain his college eligibility.
“I’ve had a year with some ups and downs but all added to growth for me as a man, student and athlete,” James wrote.
James announced his decision just before USC introduced Eric Musselman as its new coach, following the departure of Andy Enfield to SMU.
Musselman is working to build a coaching staff and evaluate a roster that has also seen the departure of junior Kobe Johnson to UCLA. USC star freshman Isaiah Collier attended Musselman’s news conference.
“I need to try to get a hold of Bronny. I’ve texted him,” Musselman said after his campus news conference. “Certainly he’s got a lot of options and we respect those options. We just want him to know that, hey, this opportunity here, if you want to play at USC, we’d love to have him. Such a talented young man.”
During his time at the Trojans, James averaged 4.8 points and 2.8 rebounds, starting six of 25 games. He shot 37% from the field, 27% from 3-point range, and 68% from the free throw line.
LeBron James, his wife, and their 9-year-old daughter were often seen courtside at the Galen Center this season.
“Bronny is his own man,” the elder James said this week. “He has some tough decisions to make. When he’s ready to make those decisions, he’ll let us all know. But as his family, we’re going to support whatever he does.”
The 39-year-old James has expressed his desire to play alongside his son in the NBA.
Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, who represents father and son, expressed that he prioritizes finding the right developmental situation over a young player entering the lottery.
James, a 6-foot-4 combo guard, did not make his college debut until Dec. 10. Following this, he briefly addressed the media, thanking the medical professionals, athletic trainers, and his support system that aided his return to the game.
Despite numerous requests, James did not engage with reporters throughout the season.
He experienced cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout at the Galen Center and was diagnosed with a treatable congenital heart defect.
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