Former NBA player Steven Hunter was critical of contract given to LeBron James’ son, Bronny

Bronny James was selected with the 55th overall selection in the NBA Draft, giving him the opportunity to play NBA basketball in the same team as his father, LeBron James.

James has since re-signed with the Lakers and will look forward to playing with his son, which many feel has always been one of his career goals once it became clear his longevity was incredibly unique.

LeBron James proudly watches son Bronny’s first points in the NBA

Since the LA Lakers selected Bronny James, LeBron James, has faced increasing criticism with some suggesting that nepotism was involved in James being drafted at this position. Former NBA player Steven Hunter is the latest to join the chorus, especially after details of Bronny‘s rookie contract emerged.

What did Steven Hunter say?

On his private Instagram account, Hunter criticized LeBron for allegedly influencing the Lakers to pick Bronny, when they wouldn’t usually have done so.

“For those that don’t know… Late second-round picks don’t get guarantees, especially before summer league,” Hunter posted on X, formally Twitter.

“Typically, late second-round picks don’t get 4-year guaranteed roster spot deals either. This wasn’t earned, I’m sorry… and it’s an egregious abuse of power from LBJ & Rich Paul. It’s a slap in the face to all of the kids out there who work their asses off to get to the league.

“It’s sneaky Hollywood stuff like this that turns a lot of people off about LeBron… This is just another example of what they be talking about right when you try to like him.”

Former NBA player Steven Hunter posted his outrage on Instagram that LeBron is abusing his power to force Bronny into the league. He says MJ could have done the same thing if he wanted to with his son but he didn’t because, “MJ stands on earned and not given” 🤔 pic.twitter.com/sBQO6pE8bX

— Jacob (@Jacobtheclipper) July 9, 2024

Michael Jordan would never have behaved in such a way

Hunter further stirred the controversy by comparing LeBron to Michael Jordan. He suggested that Jordan could have done the same for his son but chose not to.

“This is why most people prefer MJ or Kobe over him because you know at least MJ or Kobe are straight shooters… Trust me, MJ could’ve gotten one of his sons in the league if he chose to abuse his power like that… But he didn’t because MJ stands on earned not given,” he concluded.

“He would’ve never given his son a sense of entitlement which is what LeBron James just did with Bronny.”