Lakers' Bronny James Praises JJ Redick as 'Great Coach,' Says He's 'Upped the Vibes'

Los Angeles Lakers rookie Bronny James has been impressed with the environment that head coach JJ Redick has created in training camp entering his first season with the organization.

"He's a great coach so far," James told reporters on Friday. "It's been amazing vibes in the facility so far. I feel like it's upped the vibes from what it was last year from what I've heard."

LeBron James started 71 games for the Lakers under former head coach Darvin Ham last year, while the younger James spent his 2023-24 season at USC. Ham initially planned to limit the elder James' minutes to start the year, although the plan was eventually scrapped.

ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reported that the four-time MVP "bristled at the idea" at the time. James, Davis and other members of Los Angeles' rotation also "barely bothered to conceal criticisms" of Ham's schemes and rotations throughout the year.

Redick was hired by the Lakers on June 20. The front office eventually selected Bronny with the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 draft exactly one week later. While the 19-year-old hasn't experienced an NBA locker room before, he isn't the only one excited by the training camp atmosphere.

The new head coach has also earned praise for his approach to practices from veterans such as Rui Hachimura and D'Angelo Russell.

Redick will attempt to help the Lakers bounce back from a disappointing first-round playoff loss to the Denver Nuggets. With Los Angeles' regular season starting on Oct. 22, he's already drawing rave reviews.