James Earns Starting Role in Arizona Exhibition
Bryce James took another important step in his college basketball career Tuesday night, making his first start for the Arizona Wildcats during their 93-69 exhibition victory over San Francisco.
The redshirt freshman, who is the youngest son of NBA superstar LeBron James, earned a spot in head coach Tommy Lloyd’s starting lineup as Arizona opened its preparations for the 2026-27 season. James made an immediate impact, knocking down a three-pointer during the opening moments of the game.
James finished with three points and one steal in 14 minutes of action. Although his statistical production was limited, the start represented a milestone for a player looking to establish his own identity at the college level.
Tommy Lloyd Rewards James’ Progress
Lloyd explained after the game that James had earned the opportunity through his work during the fall.
The Arizona coach said James had continued to grow as a player and that putting him in the starting lineup allowed the coaching staff to experiment with the rotation.
Lloyd also emphasized that the lineup remains flexible, meaning Tuesday’s decision does not guarantee James will start when the regular season begins.
Still, the opportunity shows that James is making progress within Arizona’s program. The Wildcats are expected to compete near the top of the Big 12, making every opportunity to earn playing time important.
A Patient Approach to Development
James redshirted during his first season at Arizona, allowing him to develop without using a season of athletic eligibility. The decision was intended to give him more time to adjust to the college game and prepare for a larger role.
He joined Arizona as part of a highly regarded recruiting class and has continued working toward becoming a regular contributor.
Being LeBron James’ son naturally brings additional attention, but Bryce is working to build his own reputation through his performances on the court.
What Comes Next for Bryce James?
Arizona’s exhibition victory offered an encouraging glimpse of the team’s potential, with freshman Caleb Holt scoring 17 points and several Wildcats contributing offensively.
For James, the next challenge is turning his first start into continued progress. Consistent shooting, defensive effort and smart decisions could help him earn a larger role as the season approaches.
His first start may have come in an exhibition, but it represents another meaningful step in his development. With Arizona preparing for a demanding season, James now has an opportunity to prove he can contribute beyond his famous last name and become a dependable part of the Wildcats’ rotation.
