Bronny James confessed it’s not easy being the son of a legend.

LeBron James’ eldest child, who declared for the 2024 NBA Draft this month, admitted that growing up in his father’s shadow has presented obstacles.

“It’s tough,” Bronny stated in an interview with NBA Central this week.

‘A lot of criticism comes my way, but you know, I have to live with it,’ he said.

‘[My critics] don’t realize what I’ve been through… I just try to make the most of the opportunities that are presented to me.

Bronny James admitted it’s been ‘tough’ growing up in his dad LeBron James’ shadow

‘A lot of criticism gets thrown my way, but you know, I’ve got to deal with it,’ he said

The 19-year-old guard, who only has one season of college basketball at USC under his belt, also spoke about his decision to jump from the college division to the pros.

‘You know I always want to end up where I’m happy the most,’ he explained.

‘[My] mom has always told me you know, “take me where my heart wants me to be,” and I just found happiness in what I’m doing right now, and I feel like that’s where I want myself to be at.’

Bronny was also asked if he had ever considered pursuing a sport other than basketball, to which he replied, ‘no.’

‘I mean I’ve played other sports,’ he said. ‘I played soccer. [I] wasn’t allowed to play football. My mom didn’t allow that. So yeah, I’ve always been a sports guy, but basketball was just my cup of tea.’

The 19-year old declared for the 2024 NBA Draft after one season of college basketball

‘I’ve made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility,’ he said

Back in April, the college freshman announced his intention to join his dad in the NBA – should he be drafted come June.

‘I’ve had a year with some ups and downs but all added growth for me as a man, student and athlete,’ Bronny wrote on Instagram, seemingly referencing the fact he suffered cardiac arrest during a practice session in July 2023.

‘I’ve made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility, and will also be entering the NCAA transfer portal,’ he went on.

‘Thank you to USC for an amazing freshman year, and as always thankful for my family, friends, doctors, athletic trainers and fans for their support.’

Bronny later took part in the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago in early May

Despite his father’s encouragement, some critics have said Bronny isn’t ready to go professional.

Despite his impressive performance at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, there are still worries about Bronny’s readiness for professional basketball.

An unidentified NBA general manager stated in a piece published in The Ringer that ‘Bronny is nowhere near ready.’

The mysterious GM also encouraged him to ‘go back to school to develop at his own pace, or he risks getting lost in the shuffle, whether or not he’s playing with his father.’

LeBron expressed support for his son during the NBA All-Star Game Weekend in February, saying he would let him make his own decision.