When LeBron James is not on the hardwood, he is seen cheering on his children. ‘The King’ is often spotted hyping up his sons as they try fulfilling their dreams of making it to the NBA. Having attended several basketball games of Bronny and Bryce James, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar is also seen supporting their teammates. While two of Bronny’s former teammates are already playing in the league, Amari Bailey joined the list too, to get drafted. Almost two days after the eldest James’ son applauded Bailey, even LeBron congratulated his ‘nephew’ for getting picked 41st.
Advertisement
A five-star recruit of the Class of 2022, Bailey lodged 29.2 points and 6.5 assists as a high school junior. The 2022 McDonald All-American committed to UCLA. Averaging 11.2 rebounds and 3.8 rebounds in his lone season as a Bruin, Bailey was selected as a member of the PAC-12 All-Freshman Team earlier this year.
Regarded as one of the most underrated guards of the 2023 Draft Class, the Charlotte Hornets will certainly benefit from the combo guard’s services if he does improve on the defensive end.
LeBron James congratulates Amari Bailey for getting drafted
Joining Ziaire Williams and Brando Boston Jr., Amari becomes the third former teammate of Bronny James to get drafted into the league. Having previously revealed being baffled playing against his child’s teammates, LeBron welcomed Bailey to the NBA.
Sharing a post on his Instagram story, the four-time Most Valuable Player revealed being proud of the 19-year-old. Bron captioned the story: “Yessir!!!! Proud of you nephew”
LeBron James celebrates Amari Bailey getting drafted pic.twitter.com/iqr0ZWgbHb
— What are NBA Celebs Upto? (@NBACelebsUpdate) June 25, 2023
Amari might’ve been a second-round pick, but he’s already one of the famous players from the draft. Having been linked with his mother, Drake has developed a special bond with the Hornets rookie. With the Canadian pop star visiting Sierra Canyon games to watch Bronny play, Drake became friendly with Bailey. The multiple-time Grammy-winning artist even gifted the 6-foot-5 guard a custom ten chain with the famous OVO owl.
We could very well be seeing Drake in attendance at the Raptors-Hornets game in Toronto.
Can Amari help Brandon Miller lead the Hornets to the Finals?
Right after getting drafted #2 by the North Carolina side, Brandon Miller revealed his aim for his rookie season. Claiming that the Hornets could win the NBA Championship next year, the former Alabama star disclosed, “I think I can see the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA Finals next year. Hopefully, we will get there and get the big trophy then.”
“I can see the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA Finals next year”
Brandon Miller got unlimited confidence 😭 pic.twitter.com/5tm1H1GPIx
— Culture Hardwood (@NBAculture_) June 23, 2023
Miller might be optimistic about his debut in NBA next season, but despite the exciting potential the Hornets possess, it’s hard to pick Hornets as the favorites to win the NBA next season.
As for Bailey, the second-round pick would make a few appearances in the G-League before solidifying his position in the 12-man Charlotte Hornets roster.
