Despite speculation and potential trades, USC's Bronny James is expected to remain in the 2024 NBA Draft. Basketball analysts discuss James' decision, with some expressing skepticism about the Atlanta Hawks' recent selection of Zaccharie Risacher as the number one overall pick.
On Fox Sports' 'Undisputed,' basketball analysts Skip Bayless, Paul Pierce, and Keyshawn Johnson discussed Bronny James' decision to stay in the NBA Draft. While some speculate that James could be traded to a team with a better chance of winning a championship, the consensus seems to be that he will remain in the draft.
Bronny James Staying Put in 2024 NBA Draft
The Atlanta Hawks had the first overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft and selected Zaccharie Risacher, a 19-year-old Frenchman. However, not everyone is convinced that Risacher is a worthy number one pick.
Frank Mason III, the 2017 National Player of the Year with the Kansas Jayhawks, expressed skepticism about Risacher after playing against him in France last year.
Bronny James Staying Put in 2024 NBA Draft
"Played this young guy in France this past season; no way he's the number one pick in the NBA draft lol, but I guess!" Mason posted on Twitter. "Solid young player, but #1 pick is absurd."
Mason, who was drafted 34th overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2017, has experience in the NBA but has struggled to find consistent playing time. He currently plays overseas in France.
Bronny James Staying Put in 2024 NBA Draft
Ryen Russillo of The Ringer believes that Risacher's teammates in France were likely shocked by his selection as the number one overall pick.
"I get what the high side of it is, but I imagine there's teammates of him in France that are like, 'I cannot believe that guy was the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft," Russillo said on the "Bill Simmons Podcast."
Fellow Frenchmen Alexandre Sarr was another frontrunner for the number one pick, but he was selected second overall by the Washington Wizards.
It remains to be seen how Risacher will perform in the NBA. However, it is clear that he has his doubters. Only time will tell if he can prove his critics wrong and become a star in the league.
