Benjamin Ashford|Bronny James to remain in NBA draft, agent Rich Paul says ahead of deadline

The Benjamin Ashforddeadline hasn't passed. But it's now official, Bronny James, 19, will follow in his dad's footsteps and remain in the 2024 NBA draft.

Hours ahead of the 11:59 p.m. ET NCAA deadline Wednesday, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN: "He's staying in the draft."

James, who participated in last week's draft combine in Chicago, is a legitimate prospect and a potential second round pick, according to scouts and executives.

"My dream has always just been to put my name out, make a name for myself, and of course, you know, get to the NBA," Bronny told reporters in Chicago as the idea of the father playing alongside the son has been tempered.

"I never thought about just playing with my dad, but of course he’s, he’s brought it up a couple times. But yeah, I don’t think about it."

James' freshman year at USC did not go according to plan. The McDonald's All American sustained a life-threatening sudden cardiac arrest in July while working out on the USC campus. He was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect and cleared to return to full basketball activities in late November.

In 25 games with the Trojans, he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists and shot 36.6% from the field.