Coachella Valley Lakers win home opener, Bronny James shines

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) - The Coachella Valley Lakers started their inaugural season with a big win over the Salt Lake City Stars.

The CV Lakers won 104 to 98, behind Cole Swinder's 23 points and 8 rebounds. Bronny James had an impressive performance, scoring 22 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists.

James, 22, was in the starting lineup, along with rookie guard Cameron Carr, who were both assigned to Coachella Valley from Los Angeles on Thursday.

Both scored the first two baskets in team history.

James spoke with the media after the game, who was feeling good after the impressive performance.

"I love playing a game of basketball, and you know, to be able to come down here and actually produce is good for me and good for my spirit, and whenever I'm called down here, I'm all open to coming down here and playing," James said. "It's good to be in a new environment and I thought the crowd and the vibe in the building was great and definitely helped us. Yeah, a lot of fun being out there."

James, 22, has previously spent time on the Lakers' G League affiliate, averaging 18.4 points on 49.6% shooting in 25 games over the last two seasons.

On Friday, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick said James and Carr will rejoin the main team after tonight's game.

The CV Lakers will stay at home for their next two games, Monday and Tuesday, where they will take on the San Diego Clippers.

Friday's game marked the start of the 14-game Tip-Off Tournament which will culminate at the NBA G League Winter Showcase. The league's 31 teams are separated into four regions.  

The teams with the best winning percentage in each region, along with the next four teams with the best winning percentages regardless of region, will advance to compete for the championship at the NBA G League Winter Showcase.

Following the Tip-Off Tournament, team records will reset before the 36-game regular season, which will begin Dec. 27.

Stay with News Channel 3 for full coverage of the Coachella Valley Lakers all season long.