Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford showered reward on rookie Brandon Miller, dubbing the No. 2 draft choose as one of many workforce’s standout gamers.
Clifford recommended Miller’s spectacular two-way abilities, highlighting a latest 20-point efficiency the place he arguably stood out because the workforce’s finest participant.
“He’s a extremely good two-way participant,” expressed Clifford, per James Plowright. “He additionally simply got here off a sport within the Backyard the place he had 20, and you would argue he was possibly our greatest participant.”
Clifford emphasised Miller’s impression on the courtroom, noting the workforce’s efficient execution when he’s in play. The rookie has showcased his defensive prowess by guarding major scorers on opposing groups.
Reflecting on Miller’s efficiency, Clifford remarked, “He’s fairly good at every part. He’s a extremely good competitor. He’s one among our greatest gamers.”
The Hornets coach revealed his preliminary optimistic impressions of Miller from watching his school tapes and spending time with him. Clifford acknowledged that the 21-year-old ahead has surpassed expectations together with his early contributions to the workforce.
“I used to be a giant fan of his simply watching his school tapes, having an opportunity to spend time with him when he got here right here. He’s much better than I believed he could be this early.”
Miller’s background, together with his household’s sports activities legacy, was additionally highlighted. Clifford praised Miller’s resilient perspective, citing an incident in New York the place he performed by means of an ankle harm.
“He comes from a household the place… the opposite night time in New York, he turns his ankle within the first half, they usually say, ‘Perhaps you need to sit out.’ He says, ‘Wrap it up,’ then went out and performed. You don’t get loads of youthful gamers who’re like that anymore.”
Moreover, Clifford emphasised Miller’s old-school strategy to the sport and his skill to rapidly be taught and adapt.
“He has extra of an old-school sort outlook on this sport. The opposite factor which I believe is so, so vital is he learns very simply.”
Miller’s fast studying skill, attentiveness, and inquisitive nature when watching movie have been famous by Clifford as useful skills. The rookie is averaging 14.4 factors, 4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 30.7 minutes per sport this season.