10 Players Who Had Similar Careers To Bronny James In College But Become Stars In The NBA

College Stats: 12.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

NBA Stats: 18.3 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Jimmy Butler's college career at Marquette University from 2009 to 2011 may not have garnered the attention that his NBA exploits have, but it laid the foundation for his success in the professional ranks. One interesting point is Butler's journey from being a junior college transfer to becoming a key player for Marquette. He initially attended Tyler Junior College before transferring to Marquette for his final two years of college eligibility.

He wasn't a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, but he used his time at Marquette to refine his skills and develop into a more well-rounded player although we did not see a six-time NBA All-Star coming. His college experience served as a springboard for his professional career, where he has evolved into a perennial All-Star and one of the league's most respected two-way players so he is a perfect example of a player who worked his way to stardom.

2. Devin Booker - 2010-2013 (Kentucky)

College Stats: 10.0 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.1 BPG

NBA Stats: 24.2 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 4.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Devin Booker's tenure at the University of Kentucky, spanning the 2014-2015 season, showcased his potential despite relatively modest statistics. While his averages of 9.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game may not immediately jump off the page, there were several noteworthy aspects of his game and college experience.

One interesting point about Booker's college career is that he played for one of the most talent-rich teams in recent NCAA history. Kentucky's 2014-2015 squad, famously known as the "Platoon System," featured multiple future NBA players, including Karl-Anthony Towns, Willie Cauley-Stein, and Trey Lyles. Being surrounded by immense talent, Booker was never expected to shine ahead of them.

Booker's efficiency as a scorer was one of the most impressive aspects of his college game. Despite not being a high-volume shooter, he showcased a silky-smooth shooting stroke and remarkable shooting percentages, particularly from beyond the arc. However, one of the most significant takeaways from Booker's college stint was his readiness for the NBA despite limited playing time. Despite coming off the bench for much of the season, he demonstrated maturity beyond his years and a willingness to embrace his role which led him to getting selected No. 13 overall in the 2015 NBA Draft.

3. Zach LaVine - 2014 (UCLA)

College Stats: 9.4 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

NBA Stats: 20.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Zach LaVine's single season at UCLA in 2014 was brief but impactful. Despite averaging 9.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, his athleticism and potential were readily apparent to NBA scouts. LaVine's explosive leaping ability and highlight-reel dunks generated considerable buzz, showcasing glimpses of his future as an electrifying scorer in the NBA.

His performance in the NCAA Slam Dunk Contest further solidified his reputation as one of the most athletic prospects in the draft, laying the groundwork for his eventual selection as the 13th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2014 NBA Draft. While not many NBA players who had a pedestrian college career had the bounce that LaVine had, nobody would have predicted a two-time All-Star with five seasons averaging at least 20 points per game would arise.

4. Mark Eaton - 1981-1982 (UCLA)

College Stats: 1.8 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 0.1 APG, 0.1 SPG, 0.9 BPG

NBA Stats: 6.0 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.4 SPG, 3.5 BPG

Mark Eaton's collegiate career at UCLA during the 1981-1982 season might not have garnered much attention statistically but it was his unique physical attributes and untapped potential that caught the eye of NBA scouts. Standing at a towering 7 feet 4 inches tall, Eaton possessed an exceptional wingspan and shot-blocking prowess that made UCLA want to give him a chance.

Despite limited playing time and offensive production in college, Eaton's defensive impact was undeniable. His shot-blocking ability, in particular, stood out, showcasing his knack for altering opponents' shots and patrolling the paint with authority but did anyone think he was an All-Star? Absolutely not. After going undrafted in the NBA, Eaton's path to professional success was unconventional.

He initially pursued a career as an automotive mechanic before being discovered by the Utah Jazz during an open tryout. Once in the NBA, Eaton's defensive dominance flourished, as he led the league in blocked shots four times and won two Defensive Player of the Year awards. Despite his humble beginnings and unremarkable college statistics, Mark Eaton's NBA career serves as a testament to the transformative power of raw talent, hard work, and defensive excellence.

5. Rajon Rondo - 2005-2006 (Kentucky)

College Stats: 9.6 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG

NBA Stats: 9.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 7.9 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Considering he ended up becoming a two-time NBA champion and an elite floor general in the pros, Rajon Rondo’s time at Kentucky undoubtedly falls short of expectations. Despite spending two lackluster years at the university, Rondo's performance failed to dazzle, averaging a modest 9.6 points and 4.2 assists per game and struggling with 57.7% free-throw shooting. His tenure coincided with a decline in the team's fortunes, culminating in a No. 8 seed in the NCAA tournament.

Although Rondo had flashes of brilliance, such as grabbing an impressive 19 rebounds in a game against Iowa, his college career lacked the excitement and flair that characterized his professional playing style. Since Rondo is considered a “pure point guard”, the lack of elite teammates may have contributed to his underwhelming college experience.

6. Zach Randolph - 2001 (Michigan State)

College Stats: 10.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG

NBA Stats: 16.6 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Zach Randolph's collegiate career at Michigan State in 2001 was relatively brief, and he played a supporting role on a team that reached the Final Four but ultimately fell short against Arizona. Despite being the fourth-leading scorer on that squad, Randolph's size and potential as a dominant big man caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection as the 19th overall pick in the draft, sandwiched between Jason Collins and Brendan Haywood which proved his college career wasn’t that exciting.

While the perception of hefty big men often carries concerns about their durability and effectiveness, Randolph defied expectations, enjoying a successful NBA career spanning 17 seasons. His most notable tenure came with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he served as the cornerstone of the team for eight years, guiding them to multiple playoff appearances and a memorable run to the Western Conference Finals in 2013.

7. Kyle Lowry - 2005-2006 (Villanova)

College Stats: 9.5 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

NBA Stats: 14.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Kyle Lowry's collegiate career at Villanova showcased his talent and versatility, earning him recognition as a second-team All-Big East selection during his sophomore year in 2006. However, Lowry was still not expected to have a great career because he was only 6’1” and that took him down a few pegs once the 2006 NBA Draft came along.

Lowry ended up getting selected with the 24th overall pick in the draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. Although it took some time for Lowry's NBA career to truly flourish, his perseverance and determination paid off. It wasn't until his sixth season in the league, with his third team, that he consistently averaged double figures in scoring. 

However, once he found his rhythm, there was no looking back. Lowry now has six All-Star selections, a 2015-16 All-NBA Third Team selection, and a 2019 NBA championship ring with the Toronto Raptors. Lowry proved that simply focusing on your craft and getting better with time could constitute a great NBA career.

8. Bill Laimbeer - 1976, 1978-1979 (Notre Dame)

College Stats: 7.4 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 1.0 APG

NBA Stats: 12.9 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Bill Laimbeer's collegiate journey was marked by adversity and perseverance. Initially attending Notre Dame, he faced academic challenges and flunked his freshman year. To regain his eligibility, Laimbeer spent two semesters at Owens Technical College in Toledo, Ohio, before successfully re-entering Notre Dame.

During his two years with the Fighting Irish basketball team, Laimbeer embraced a role primarily as a substitute, averaging 7.3 points and 6.0 rebounds per game while playing 20 minutes per game. Despite not being a focal point of the team, his contributions were crucial in Notre Dame's deep postseason runs. As mainly a backup, nobody foresaw Laimbeer making four All-Star selections and being a pivotal piece to championship teams.

9. DeAndre Jordan - 2008 (Texas A&M)

College Stats: 7.9 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 0.4 APG, 0.2 SPG, 1.3 BPG

NBA Stats: 8.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.5 BPG

DeAndre Jordan's stint under Mark Turgeon at Texas A&M left much to be desired, raising questions about his fit within the system or perhaps Turgeon's ability to harness his potential. Despite his immense physical attributes as an athletic center at 6’11”, Jordan's performance on the court failed to align with expectations, averaging just 7.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 20.1 minutes per game. These numbers hardly reflected the potential of a player who seemed destined for a career overseas rather than in the NBA.

However, the Los Angeles Clippers took a gamble on Jordan in the second round of the draft, banking on his size and athleticism to potentially blossom at the professional level. Fortunately for them, Jordan exceeded all expectations, emerging as one of the league's premier rebounders and defensive anchors. Jordan went on to make the 2016-17 All-Star Team and make three All-NBA Team appearances.

10. Swen Nater - 1972-1973 (UCLA)

College Stats: 4.9 PPG, 4.0 RPG

NBA Stats: 12.2 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG

After attending Cypress College in California, Swen Nater's basketball journey took a significant turn. Although he initially played sparingly as a freshman, Nater's exceptional performance during his sophomore year earned him recognition as a Community College All-American and paved the way for a scholarship to UCLA.

Upon transferring to UCLA, Nater decided to revert to his father's surname, Nater. Despite redshirting his first year with the UCLA Bruins, Nater played a role in two NCAA championships although he was a role player. Despite never starting a collegiate game and posting pedestrian numbers, Nater would get taken No. 16 overall and went on to make two All-Star Teams, two All-NBA Teams, and won Rookie of the Year.

Bronny James Can Have A Great Career If Given The Chance

There have been 10 examples of average collegiate players who turned out to be All-Stars. Bronny does have potential as an offensive player because he has a natural jumper and an eye for scoring the ball. At 6’4” and 210 lbs, Bronny isn’t as big as his father and not as athletic, but he is good enough size to be a shooter in the NBA.

If Bronny can end up focusing on working hard, similar to the likes of Jimmy Butler and Kyle Lowry, he can develop his all-around skill and become an All-Star one day. There isn’t an excuse for Bronny to not work as hard as he can because he has all the resources in the world, preference in the basketball world, and the natural talent to become a capable shooter in the pros.

Even if Bronny falls to the second round of the 2024 Draft or might even drop out of it completely, his slow start in his college career doesn’t mean the end of the world. With 10 players having slower college years and still ending up as All-Stars, Bronny James hopes to follow in that mold and get drafted into the NBA in the upcoming draft.