Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller sat down with HoopsHype at the Encore Hotel to discuss playing for the USA Select Team and why he’s at the Vegas Summer League.
The 21-year-old Miller, who finished third overall in the Rookie of the Year voting last season, also talked about his reactions to the Hornets re-signing Miles Bridges, the returns of Mark Williams and LaMelo Ball, the Josh Green acquisition, new coach Charles Lee, playoff expectations for the Hornets, and more.
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Brandon Miller: I think that put me in a great place out there competing with the best at the highest level. 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.
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BM: I think it was to feel out the new coaching staff 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.
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BM: I think that was a great thing for us having him back. He’s a veteran, and everyone loves him like a brother off the court. I think it’s going to be a great year this year.
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BM: I’m pretty sure we’re going to have everybody back. Mark and LaMelo (Ball). I think it’s how everyone performs, not just one person. I think the Hornets are a whole team. I think we’re a dangerous team when everyone is healthy.
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BM: 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.
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BM: I know he wants everybody to play as hard as they can and compete while we’re out there. Of course, he’s going to have fun with it. I think the main thing I’ve seen from him is he’s always involved with his players. I know he’s a player’s coach.
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BM: My main goal is to win. I think everything comes after that as far as any of the awards. I can’t really say much to anybody who’s been in Charles’ shoes. He’s won a couple of rings, so hopefully, I’ll get a ring under my belt.
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BM: I think we’re going to be a playoff team.
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BM: 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.
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BM: One thing about working with him is that he always kept me focused and in the gym and staying around the right people. He always pushed me. He’d have his moments where he’d get after you after a play and then be best friends right after the next play after that. I love Coach Norm and what he did for me and the team.
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