In a major development for the Arizona Wildcats, Bryce James, the youngest son of NBA icon LeBron James, has announced his commitment to play college basketball in Tucson. The 17-year-old shooting guard from Sierra Canyon High School in California chose Arizona over offers from Ohio State and Duquesne.
Bryce, a 6-foot-3 three-star recruit in the class of 2025, made his announcement via Instagram on Wednesday, simply stating “100% committed” along with a graphic of him in an Arizona uniform. The commitment gives second-year head coach Tommy Lloyd his second pledge in the 2025 class, joining top-25 prospect Dwayne Aristode.
Impressive Pedigree and Potential
While not as highly touted as his older brother Bronny, Bryce has steadily elevated his game over the past year. Playing for the Strive For Greatness grassroots program on the Nike EYBL circuit this spring and summer, the lefty guard showcased his scoring and playmaking ability.
In 14 EYBL games, Bryce posted averages of:
- 6.9 points
- 2.2 rebounds
- 39% shooting from the field
- 36.8% from three-point range
His breakout performance came at the Peach Jam finals, where he tallied 12 points in 23 minutes against a talented Nightrydas Elite squad. Standing at a lanky 6-foot-3 with smooth ball skills and a pure outside stroke, Bryce has the physical tools and pedigree to develop into an impact player at the collegiate level.
Arizona Building a Bright Future
Landing a commitment from Bryce James is another huge win for Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd as he looks to build a perennial powerhouse in the desert. After leading the Wildcats to a Pac-12 title and Sweet 16 appearance in his debut season, Lloyd is putting together an impressive 2025 recruiting class headlined by Bryce and fellow top-25 recruit Dwayne Aristode.
“Bryce James has considerable upside with his size, length, and unselfish style. In Arizona’s uptempo, free-flowing offense, his versatility and passing ability should flourish. This is the type of foundational recruit Tommy Lloyd can build around.”
– Recruiting analyst Eric Bossi
The James family has become basketball royalty, with patriarch LeBron still starring for the Los Angeles Lakers and older son Bronny ranking as one of the top prospects in the 2024 class. Now Bryce is poised to carve his own path at Arizona, bringing his talented all-around game to Tucson.
Can Bryce Make an Immediate Impact?
While it’s always difficult to project how a recruit will transition to the college game, Bryce James certainly has the physical gifts and basketball IQ to contribute early in his Arizona career. His size, shooting stroke, and passing ability should make him a natural fit in the Wildcats’ high-octane offense.
Under the tutelage of Lloyd and his staff, Bryce will have every opportunity to grow his game and tap into his immense potential. Arizona has quickly established itself as a premier destination for top recruits, and the commitment of a high-profile prospect like Bryce only solidifies that reputation.
As Bryce James embarks on the next chapter of his basketball journey, all eyes will be on Arizona to see how he develops and if he can help lead the Wildcats to new heights. One thing is certain – with his skill, pedigree, and the right coaching, Bryce has the chance to write his own compelling story and emerge from his famous father’s shadow.
