ESPN report: Charlotte Hornets, Brandon Miller continues to disrespect 60-year-old Michael Jordan
There’s a debate regarding respect for basketball superstars after Brandon Miller made remarks about Michael Jordan airballing a free throw.
The rookie standout for the Charlotte Hornets, Brandon Miller, recently caused a stir with some fairly harsh words he made about basketball legend Michael Jordan. Miller found it unexpected and entertaining when he saw Jordan airball a free throw during a practice. Miller didn’t mince words when he expressed his shock:
“He was discussing money, and after witnessing him miss that free throw, things just got better. Jordan missing a free throw is absurd, you know. That’s absurd, even for someone his age. Did Jordan fail to make an airball free throw?That is absurd.
“He’s meant to warm up and begin layups… I could not palm a basketball, he insisted. However, I thought, “Let me just quickly take this picture after the workout.” I needed to see the movie.”
Miller related the story with a mixture of humor and incredulity. The youthful athlete was astounded that a guy of Jordan’s quality could miss so horribly at the age of 61. Miller didn’t end there with his remarks. To add fuel to the fire, he said about how Jordan had been making fun of him for not being able to palm a basketball.
Before, at a pre-draft workout, Miller had revealed a unique and embarrassing incident involving the great Michael Jordan. Miller claimed that Jordan had airballed a free throw, and he had been trash-talking Jordan.
Both fans and analysts have vigorously debated these comments. Many people see Miller’s remarks as disrespectful to Jordan, who is not only a legendary player in basketball but also a key member of the Hornets organization. Jordan, who is renowned for his intense rivalry and unmatched success with the Chicago Bulls—where he won six titles and cemented his place in the pantheon of all time—now finds that a rookie is casting doubt on his reputation.
This event highlights the NBA’s generational transition, as younger players like Miller feel more comfortable questioning and criticizing famous players. Some regard this as a positive indication of self-assurance and rivalry, while others think it betrays a disrespect for the accomplishments and stature of the greats of the past.
Miller’s account, for all its humor, contributes to the intricate story of Jordan’s later basketball years. Compared to his playing career, his ownership of the Charlotte Hornets has not been as successful. Under his direction, the team has only made it to the playoffs three times and has not won a single postseason series. At some point, he sold the team for about $3 billion.
After selling his controlling holding, Jordan’s engagement with the Hornets has decreased to a minority stake. The outcome has been inconsistent. But with Miller, who shot 37.3% from 3-point range and averaged 17.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in his rookie campaign, coupled with star guard LaMelo Ball and forward Miles Bridges, the future of the team is bright.
Charles Lee, the new head coach, who has a wealth of experience as an assistant coach, will also be beneficial to the club.
Miller’s digs at Jordan might inspire or serve as a reminder that even the best players are subject to criticism as he works to improve his game and the Hornets develop around their youthful nucleus. In the greater story of Jordan’s legacy and Miller’s emerging career, this story of his unusual airball is probably going to be remembered as a noteworthy side point.
