As we all know, LeBron James has never shied away from cheering on his two sons’ basketball exploits. James has shown similar enthusiasm while adulating his sons’ peers as well. Now, as one of Bronny’s former teammates has made it to the NBA, LeBron couldn’t help but welcome him to the big stage with a warm shout-out. The recently recruited youngsters are getting all the spotlight as the NBA held the 2023 Draft on Thursday.
Rumors about LeBron James’ future took center stage in NBA circles ever since he revealed he might contemplate retirement. When that story died down, James’ trade rumors occupied the epicenter of most discussions. But now, LeBron’s focus, along with the NBA world, has shifted to the upcoming talent in the league.
LeBron James welcomes 19-year-old star to the NBA with warm words
19-year-old Amari Bailey garnered the NBA world’s attention even before he declared for the draft. He was a consensus five-star recruit. He made it to the McDonald’s All-American in 2022 as well. Furthermore, Bailey came up with decent numbers during his freshman year at UCLA. Now, the expectations on the 19-year-old have increased as the Charlotte Hornets drafted him in the second round with the 41st overall pick.
Making it to the NBA itself is one of the biggest achievements in any ballplayer’s life. To make it sweeter, Amari Bailey also received flowers from The King. Recently, ‘uninterrupted’ posted a set of Bailey’s pictures from the draft night and his videos from his college days on their Instagram feed.
LeBron James shared the said post on his Instagram story. “Yessir!!!! Proud of you nephew,” the four-time champion wrote in his story. Anyhow, this was not the first time that LeBron James gave flowers to Amari Bailey.
Amari Bailey teamed up with Bronny James
Amari Bailey and Bronny James go back a long way. The two played together for Sierra Canyon High School. During his high school stint, Bailey was named California Mr. Basketball. Then, King James took to Twitter and congratulated Bailey for achieving the milestone. “Congrats nephew. Proud of you kid,” James wrote on Twitter, addressing Bailey. To this day, James has the same love and respect for his “nephew.”
Bailey surely is having the time of his life as he got to join Michael Jordan’s Hornets with ‘Uncle’ James’ blessing. Anyhow, Bailey, along with the recently drafted Brandon Miller and centerpiece LaMelo Ball, will have to go the extra mile to give hope to Charlotte fans.