Los Angeles Lakers rookie Bronny James has appeared in 22 NBA games this season. Selected 55th overall in the 2024 NBA draft, James has spent time with the Lakers and their G League affiliate (South Bay Lakers) in his first professional campaign.

With his father, LeBron James, sidelined due to a groin injury, the former USC guard received 30 minutes of playing time in Thursday’s contest against the Milwaukee Bucks. Making the most of this increased opportunity, James scored a career-high 17 points in the 118-89 loss.

This performance from James was not only the best of his career, but it made Lakers history.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) and Milwaukee Bucks guard Ryan Rollins (13).

© Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

Per StatMamba on X, James is the youngest Lakers rookie since Magic Johnson to record at least 17 points and five assists on 70% shooting. Following her son’s historic performance, Savannah James posted a nine-word message on her Instagram story.

“Mean what you say, and say what you mean,” she wrote.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James receives a message from his mother, Savannah James.

mrs_savannahrj / Instagram

Reposting her son’s comments in an interview with Joe Vardon of The Athletic, Savannah James amplified his message about blocking out criticism. Shortly after that interview was published, the Lakers rookie turned in a career performance.

In 22 NBA games, James is averaging just 2.3 points on 35.4% shooting. That said, his play in the G League has been much improved. In nine regular-season games for South Bay, James is averaging 20.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and 5.1 assists (via NBA G League stats).

Speaking with reporters after Thursday’s game, James said (via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin), “I was given an opportunity tonight to go show them what I’ve been working on while I’ve been sitting on the bench, in the G League getting reps, stuff like that. Just constantly putting that in my head that they believe in me and that I can contribute.”