Following a high-scoring All-Rookie First Team debut season, Hornets forward Brandon Miller was invited to play for the USA Select Team against a stacked U.S. Olympic squad.
The Alabama alum reflected on the experience during a conversation with Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
“I think that put me in a great place out there competing with the best at the highest level,” Miller said. “Of course, we were having fun competing. I think that was a great moment for me to be out there and show what I can bring to a team against top talent. It was a great opportunity.”
Miller is talented enough on the court that it’s conceivable he could make the actual Team USA squad for a future Olympics competition. Across 74 games last year (68 starts), the 6’9″ forward posted averages of 17.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.6 blocks per game with a .440/.373/.827 shooting line for the 21-61 Hornets.
His full conversation with Scotto is well worth reading in full. Below are some select highlights.
On his decision to partake in a second straight Summer League:
“I think it was to feel out the new coaching staff [under first-year head coach Charles Lee] because it’s going to be a new thing for everybody this year. I wanted to see how they wanted us to play. I think it also sets the tone (as far as leadership) for the year that we have coming up.”
On the addition of high-upside young shooting guard Josh Green to the team via trade:
“I think he brings a lot of defensive energy for us. I think that’s one thing we want to focus on this year, which is locking down on the defensive side. I think our defense will lead to our offense and transition. Josh is going to help us with that and, of course, his ability to knock down open shots. I think that’ll be big for us.”
On what fans can expect out of the club across the next five seasons:
“I think Charlotte fans should expect a playoff team. I think we’re going to bring energy every game and go out there and get as many wins as we can.”
A healthy Mark Williams is gonna be huge for Charlotte as well, in terms of them improving their defense. But yea BMiller should def be a strong candidate/lock for the next US senior team at the 2027 World Cup in Qatar. He’s gonna be one of the very best scorers in the game by that time. The Hornets remind me a lot of where Orlando was when they brought Mosley on board. Charles Lee should have a very similar effect on this group. Their forward combo of BMiller/Miles can be just as productive as Paolo/Franz. The big question is whether they can bring their defensive tenacity/efficiency to the same level that Orlando has… link to m.youtube.com
Another link. Yawn. Give it up wannabe.