Bronny James expected to make debut for USC this Sunday
True freshman guard Bronny James could make his USC debut this Sunday as the Trojans are set to host Long Beach State at 1:00 pm at the Galen Center.
James participated in his first full-contact practice on Thursday afternoon. Afterward, USC head coach Andy Enfield told reporters the expectation is for James to play on a minutes restriction this weekend.
James’ USC debut has been delayed after the five-star freshman suffered cardiac arrest during a practice session in July. James participated in pregame warmups recently and was cleared by his doctors for a full return to basketball activities on November 30.
It’s not quite a full green light for James at this point. Enfield said he has another practice to go through on Friday, and then both James and team doctors will have a say in the decision to play on Sunday.
James was expected to play a solid role for USC this season, likely coming off the bench as someone who could provide defensive help on the perimeter and find shots within the Trojans’ offense. USC could very much use the additional help James will provide in the backcourt. However, it’s safe not to expect too much too soon from James, who likely will be eased back onto the court after the health scare and recovery period.
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If James is indeed scheduled to play on Sunday, his father and Lakers’ star LeBron James will be in attendance. James said recently he will absolutely be in attendance for the first game of his son’s USC career.
“It’ll be exciting. Looking forward to his first game, whenever he’s cleared,” said James. “Whenever he’s ready to have his first game? I already told my teammates that if they play on the same day we’re playing, I’m going to have to catch them next game.”
USC is 5-3 overall this season and coming off a decisive loss to Gonzaga in the Legends of Basketball Las Vegas Invitational. Sunday is USC’s final non-conference home game before a two-game Alabama trip to take on Auburn and Alabama State wraps up the non-conference slate.
