‘I love where Bryce is at’: Tommy Lloyd speaks highly of James’ development

After redshirting his freshman season at Arizona, Bryce James will get the chance to see the floor for the Wildcats in 2026-27.

Being the son of NBA legend LeBron James certainly has its perks, but it can also bring a lot of outside pressure.

The decision for the three-star prospect out of Sierra Canyon High School to redshirt his freshman season was one designed to prioritize James’ long-term development.

“I’ve been impressed with Bryce’s continued growth, and feel great about having him in this program,” Lloyd said.

Lloyd also added that seeing him play overseas against European competition during the Wildcats’ team trip to Lithuania was encouraging. In 15.3 minutes per game over three exhibition games, James averaged four points, 1.7 rebounds and one assist while shooting 40% from the field and 50% from three.

“I thought he had a very good showing overseas,” Lloyd said. “It was his first time kind of getting an opportunity to play at this level. I think it’s been a good springboard for him to continue to build confidence.”

As LeBron’s son, it would be easy to feel the need for Bryce James to live up to those superstar expectations. But Lloyd said that the James family has been nothing but supportive, making sure that Bryce can continue to be himself without forcing unrealistic expectations on him.

Lloyd noted that LeBron made an appearance at a recent practice.

“It was great given what he’s accomplished,” Lloyd said. “But they’re a family like any other family, so seeing him put that parent hat on and not be a family that demands anything, they just want Bryce to run his own race and I love where Bryce is at.”

Lloyd added that the next step in Bryce’s development is being a “solid contributing role player” for the Wildcats, and that’s no small feat.

“If you’re a solid contributing role player at Arizona, you’re a heck of a basketball player,” Lloyd said.

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