Brandon Miller

Brandon Miller is a former professional basketball player, originating from New Albany, Indiana, United States. He was born on March 19, 1979. The 6-foot-two-inch point guard, known for his extraordinary ball-handling skills, leadership qualities, and high basketball IQ, achieved major accomplishments in high school, college, and professional basketball. He is particularly remembered for his significant contributions to the Butler University basketball program as both a player and coach.

Early Life

Miller was born to Bob and Sharon Miller and grew up in New Albany, Indiana, alongside his siblings, Brian and Kristen Miller. Brandon attended New Albany High School, where his exceptional basketball skill was evident from an early age. During his time in high school, he led his team to a considerable 19-3 win-loss record.

College Career

Upon graduating high school, Miller started his collegiate basketball career at Southwest Missouri State University. However, after just one year, he decided to transfer to Butler University based in Indianapolis, a college renowned for its outstanding basketball program. As the NCAA rules required, he sat out from the basketball games for one year post his transfer.

When he was eventually on the court for the Bulldogs, Miller immediately left a lasting impression. During his three-year stint, from 2000 to 2003, he garnered 1159 points, 189 three-point field goals, and 305 assists. These impressive stats conferred him the 18th place overall in scoring and third place overall in three-point field goals in Butler’s history.

What’s more, the point guard led the Bulldogs to three conference championships, three appearances in the NCAA Tournament, and an unprecedented ‘Sweet 16’ spot in 2003. His most unforgettable game is arguably Butler’s victory against Louisville, where he scored 14 of his 18 points in the final 7.5 minutes, ensuring Butler’s place in the NCAA Tournament’s second round.

His solid performances throughout his college career earned Miller multiple acknowledgments, including being named to the All-Midwestern Collegiate Conference/Horizon League team thrice.

Professional Career

Although never competing in the NBA regular season, Miller continued his professional career in the NBA’s development league, now called the G-League. He played for Fayetteville Patriots during the 2003-04 season, where he continued to impress with his leadership on the court and offensive prowess. He inked his place in the franchise history with 35.9% three-point completion, his 2.9 assists per game, and 12.2 points average.

After his spell in the development league, Miller embarked on a career overseas. He played for several countries, including the United Kingdom, Italy, and Australia in professional leagues.

Coaching Career

Upon retiring from professional basketball, Miller returned to his alma mater, Butler University, in the capacity of an assistant coach under Brad Stevens. His excellent knowledge of the sport and tactical acumen were evident as he helped guide Butler to a second place in the NCAA tournament in 2010 and 2011.

After a short stint as Special Assistant of Basketball Operations at Ohio State University, he returned to Butler in 2013 as the head coach. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs registered crucial victories against numerous top-tier teams, including North Carolina. However, he took a medical leave of absence in 2014 and eventually resigned in 2017.

Legacy

Although his statistics might not be stellar compared to many of his contemporaries, Brandon Miller had a significant impact on the teams he played and coached for. His tenure at Butler University was an integral part of their rise in the college basketball realm, both as a player and then later as a coach. Though not as famous as some, his name is held in high regard at Butler and in Indiana basketball circles.

Miller’s understanding of the game, both on and off the court, has made him a respected figure in basketball. The foundation of his solid play and coaching philosophies started from playing in the tough Indiana High School circuit, then honed in Butler, and eventually tested against the professional leagues worldwide.

Overall, Brandon Miller’s life in basketball is a testament to his love of the game, skill as a player, and significant influence as a coach. His journey provides a compelling narrative of determination, passion, and the power of sports in shaping individual lives and entire communities.