LeBron James Cites Celtics’ Derrick White as Blueprint for Sons Bronny and Bryce’s Growth…see more… A Lesson in Patience, Hustle, and the Long Road to NBA Stardom
LeBron James has never shied away from speaking about his family, particularly when it comes to his two basketball-playing sons, Bronny and Bryce James. But his recent comments praising Boston Celtics guard Derrick White have caught attention not just for their praise, but for the implicit lesson he hopes his sons will take to heart.
During a sit-down with ESPN’s Malika Andrews over the weekend, James discussed what it means to develop at your own pace and the importance of staying the course in the face of adversity. Citing Derrick White’s unconventional path to NBA stardom, LeBron offered a pointed and powerful example for his sons, both of whom are charting their own unique journeys through the basketball world.
“You look at a guy like Derrick White,” LeBron said, “he didn’t come into the league as a star, wasn’t a five-star high school guy, didn’t play at Kentucky or Duke. But look at him now — a champion, a two-way force, and someone every team in the league respects. That’s the kind of mindset I want Bronny and Bryce to adopt.”
Derrick White’s Rise: A Model of Perseverance
White, who helped lead the Celtics to the 2024 NBA Championship, wasn’t drafted until the 29th overall pick in 2017 and played at the Division II level before transferring to Colorado. His development into one of the league’s premier defensive guards and a clutch postseason performer is, in LeBron’s view, “what real growth looks like.”
“I think too many young players — especially kids with big names or expectations — think the league owes them something,” LeBron noted. “Derrick earned everything. That’s the example I show Bronny and Bryce.”
The James Brothers: Talent Under the Microscope
Bronny James was selected 55th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers — a team still featuring his legendary father. Though some questioned the pick, LeBron was vocal in emphasizing that Bronny’s journey would be his own, not a shortcut to legacy.
“Bronny’s got a lot to prove, and that’s okay,” LeBron said. “I told him — and I tell Bryce this too — it’s not about where you start, it’s about how committed you are to becoming the best version of yourself.”
Bryce James, meanwhile, is currently a rising senior at Notre Dame High School in California, with early scholarship interest from major programs like Ohio State, USC, and Oregon. At 6-foot-6 with a smooth shooting stroke, Bryce may yet surpass expectations — but LeBron insists patience is just as valuable as talent.
“I tell Bryce all the time — be a student of the game. If your name wasn’t James, how would you work? That’s the test.”
A Changing Basketball Landscape
LeBron’s comments reflect a larger truth about the changing landscape of player development in basketball. In the age of social media hype, NIL deals, and accelerated pro paths, the game is often seen through the lens of speed — how quickly can a player rise?
Derrick White’s journey cuts against that grain. From the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs to an NBA championship in Boston, White’s path took time, detours, and unwavering resolve. For LeBron, that story is gold — particularly for sons growing up under the weight of dynasty and media scrutiny.
“What Derrick did, most people don’t see as flashy,” LeBron said. “But it’s real. And it wins.”
Bronny’s Rookie Year: Building Brick by Brick
LeBron confirmed during the interview that Bronny’s summer training program would emphasize fundamentals, defensive toughness, and decision-making — all qualities White exemplifies.
“We’re not skipping steps. He’s got to earn minutes, earn trust,” LeBron added. “It’s not about playing next to me — it’s about deserving to be on the court.”
The elder James also mentioned watching film of guards like Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Tyrese Haliburton with Bronny, focusing on how they control tempo and contribute even when not scoring.
“Those are the guys I want my sons to study. Not just the flashy ones, but the impactful ones.”
Reactions Around the League
LeBron’s praise didn’t go unnoticed. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, when told about LeBron’s comments, smiled.
“It’s a huge compliment,” Mazzulla said. “Derrick is everything we want in a Celtic — unselfish, gritty, smart. For someone like LeBron to use him as a standard for his kids? That means a lot.”
Even White himself, typically understated, was flattered.
“I’m just trying to help my team win, but if that can inspire someone — especially guys coming up — then that’s special,” White said after a Team USA training session.
The Bigger Picture
In using Derrick White as a model for his sons, LeBron James is subtly pushing back against the notion that greatness must come instantly — a powerful message in a world increasingly focused on shortcuts and spectacle.
Whether or not Bronny and Bryce reach the same heights as their father remains to be seen, but they have clearly been given a blueprint rooted in humility, discipline, and respect for the grind.
“At the end of the day, it’s not about being me,” LeBron said. “It’s about being the best you — every day. Derrick White figured that out. That’s what I want for my boys.”
As the next generation of the James family carves out its legacy, LeBron’s message serves as both guidance and a reminder: greatness isn’t always born; often, it’s built — one hard-earned step at a time.
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