Bryce James, the youngest son of Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, is set to join Arizona’s basketball program this fall as part of the highly regarded 2025 recruiting class. Ranked third nationally by 247Sports, the Wildcats’ group includes several standout players, and Bryce is keen to make his mark with the same determination his father has encouraged him to maintain.
Following in the footsteps of his older brother, Bronny James, who debuted at USC two years ago, Bryce shared insights during his first media session on campus about the guidance his father gave him ahead of starting college ball.
Just working hard and coming in and doing what you do best,
James said Tuesday.
Making sure if you’re not having some good days, always have to stay positive. … miss a shot, maybe get a turnover or something, don’t hang your head down. Always keep your head up. Push through and stay positive.
Background and Recruitment of Bryce James
A three-star prospect from Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth, California, Bryce committed to Arizona earlier this year after considering offers from Duquesne and Ohio State. He arrives as one of six incoming freshmen, joining top recruits including five-star guard Brayden Burries and five-star forward Koa Peat.
In the 2025 recruiting class rankings, Bryce is listed as the No. 52 shooting guard, offering a promising but developing presence for the Wildcats‘ roster depth.
Arizona’s Prospects and Team Composition
Arizona is anticipated to field one of the most talented and deep squads in the Big 12 conference. Burries and Peat are viewed as strong NBA draft prospects and could be first-round picks in the 2026 draft. The Wildcats also bolstered their freshmen class with four-star forward Dwayne Aristode and international players Sidi Gueye and Ivan Kharchenkov.
The team made only one transfer addition, former Harvard guard Evan Nelson, while losing key players Henri Veesaar and KJ Lewis to the transfer portal. Additionally, Carter Bryant, a former top-30 recruit, earned the 14th pick in this summer’s NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs.
With a crowded backcourt featuring returning stars, Bryce’s playing time remains uncertain. Veteran guard Jaden Bradley, who started all 37 games last season, along with Anthony Dell’Orso, who started 28, are expected to maintain prominent roles in the lineup.
We treat Bryce just like we treat every other guy,
Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd stated earlier this summer.
He shows up every day with a smile on his face. … My hope for him is everybody gives him space and let’s him develop into his own version of Bryce James. He is a great young man, so let’s let that come out and not overwhelm him with stuff he has no control over.
Outlook for the Wildcats and Bryce James’ Role
Arizona concluded their first Big 12 season with a 24-13 record and a 14-6 conference mark before falling 100-93 to Duke in the NCAA Sweet 16. The Wildcats are strongly considered contenders for the national title in 2026, ranked 16th among teams like UCLA, Illinois, Iowa State, and Gonzaga, according to betting odds.
Bryce James enters this competitive environment with high expectations, supported by his father’s steady encouragement and the guidance of Coach Lloyd. As the Wildcats aim for championship success, Bryce’s development and adaptation this season will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, signaling a promising start to his collegiate basketball career.