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Bronny James gave viewers Deja vu in his USC debut with an incredible chase down block. The star guard raced down the court to reject the attempt, slamming the ball against the backboard to deny a two-point basket.
That play looked eerily similar to one from his dad’s NBA career, sparking an immediate reaction on social media.
Bronny made his first college appearance on Sunday in a game between the Trojans and Long Beach State. He’s battled back after a scary offseason collapse, having been rushed to the hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest at practice.
A few shorts months later, and he’s back on the floor. It doesn’t look like he’s missed a beat.
In the first half of action, James showed off his defensive prowess by chasing down a Long Beach State player and swatting his shot.
BRONNY JAMES CHASE DOWN BLOCK 😱
REMIND YOU OF SOMEONE?
(via @Pac12Network) pic.twitter.com/8bCkOFKYU5
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) December 10, 2023
Viewers immediately flashed back to LeBron’s viral rejection in Game 7 of the NBA Finals.
That block of an Andre Iguodala lay-up came in the closing minutes of the playoff contest. Tied at 89-89, the defensive effort kept the Warriors from taking a late lead in the series’ deciding game.
He reportedly reached a top speed of more than 20 MPH while tracking Iguodala down the court.
Bronny James’ block didn’t have quite that impact, but it was impressive, nonetheless.