It’s a historic day! Following in the footsteps of his superstar dad and older brother, 17-year-old Bryce James has finally set foot into the cutthroat world of college basketball, the NCAA, and a NIL world that has taken rosters by storm. While the youngster had already made the big decision to join the Arizona Wildcats in January, putting pen to paper at the Sierra Canyon campus was just that extra formality he needed to make his presence count. And, boy, did this extra step make heads turn.
For two reasons primarily: First, because fans can’t help but be excited about their new addition, and how “this kid brings massive media attention to the program” while also being a “solid player”. Averaging eight points and 4.2 rebounds a game this past season, the 6-foot-4 shooting guard, not just helped his school beat Lincoln (58-53) to claim the CIF State Division 1 title, but also finished with 3 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists during the game.
The youngster also participated in Team USA’s junior national team camp alongside Carmelo Anthony’s son Kiyan, and Gilbert Arenas’ son Alijah. In fact, when Bryce was just 11 years old, his father even dubbed him as the “best shooter in the household”. This brings us to the second point: Despite the teenager experiencing such a significant moment in his college football career, fans also couldn’t help but notice how none of the family members turned up for the occasion. But, don’t worry.
Mother Savannah James still made sure to celebrate the special day in her own way. Brimming with pride, the entrepreneur posted an Instagram story on May 2 with the caption “Signing Day” that featured James alongside his teammate Bryce Cofield, who received a scholarship with Cal State Fullerton. As balloons featuring their college colors surrounded them, so did their high school teammates. But, neither his father or his brother were present during his landmark moment, either. Low off of a playoff elimination, perhaps the Los Angeles Lakers players are keeping a low profile.
To defend their absence, a formal signing might not be as important in the grander scheme of things—especially if we look at how the family has supported the younger son every step of the way. When the 17-year-old went for an unofficial campus visit, his mother had also joined in. They even took a picture together, wearing the Wildcats’ University jacket. Even when the Akron Hammer was suffering from a groin injury, he attended Bryce James’ state championship game. Bryce’s mother and 10-year-old sister Zhuri James were present courtside and practically jumping on their seats…
Bryce James is saving big bucks
Just like his elder brother, the spotlight will likely shine on Bryce James throughout his time with the University of Arizona. His last name carries that weight. Moreover, with the assumption that LeBron James could be playing potentially his last NBA season with Bryce, every step will be closely monitored.
But so far, the 6’6″ shooting guard is only making the right headlines. As LeBron James revealed on the Pat McAfee Show, the 17-year-old earned a “full ride” scholarship to Arizona.
Truth be told, in terms of finance, the cost of college won’t really put a dent in LeBron James’ bank account. But regardless, Bryce James’ hard work and achievements in high school will lead to immense savings for the James family. As per US Sports Scholarship website, a full-ride scholarship covers all the major costs, including tuition and living arrangements.
Depending on the college, such major expenses “can be worth up to a staggering $400,000 over four years,” as per the website. But it’s still uncertain how long the 17-year-old will spend in Arizona. There’s a good chance that he follows Bronny James’ footsteps and sticks to the ‘one and done’ system. Or he could also opt for more growth by staying in college. Although that would make him and LeBron James playing together a highly unlikely outcome.
Those technicalities aside, the younger son from the James family is making his parents proud. And the anticipation for his college journey keeps growing as people wonder what the future holds.
