Brad Miller bids farewell to NBA - NBA Update
On Thursday night Brad Miller’s 14 year basketball career came to end. Minnesota TimberWolves centre played his last match against Denver Nuggets and collected 4 points, 4 assists and 4 boards in a 131-102 defeat. He left the game
with 5 minutes remaining in the 4th quarter and received a standing ovation from the crowd.
He could hardly hold his tears when asked about his last appearance.
"No, I've always been the tough guy," Miller said when asked if expected to be this emotional. "I had a couple friends that came into town. ... I've been all cool all day and coming out, it really hit me hard."
Several Wolves’ injured players like Ricky Rubio and Luke Ridnour were there to honour the veteran’s farewell. They were wearing blue headbands to honour the veteran. A lot of sentimental scenes were witnessed on the bench and
in the dressing room. Miller sobbed when he received big hugs from the players after the game.
"I knew he would be emotional because he cares," Adelman said. "He cares about the game. He cares about the way he plays. I knew he didn't have a lot left (in his body), but his influence in the locker room, he tried. He tried
to talk to guys and make them understand what it takes to be successful. Remember, he was not drafted and he became an All Star and had a 14-year career. I wish him nothing but the best."
Miller has averaged 2.3 points, 1.3 boards and 1.6 assists in this season. He was an experienced player with a deep insight. Miller held the opinion that the Wolves should make roster changes in the summer. Though his run with
Minnows was not successful but he was always there to mentor young players.
The former two times NBA –All star started his professional career with the Charlotte Hornets as undrafted free agent in 1998. He left them for Chicago Bulls in 2000 as a free agent, where he averaged 12.7 points per game on 46%
shooting during the 2001- 2 season.
He went on to play for Indiana Pacers and Sacramento Kings in the following years before coming back to the Bulls in 2009-10 seasons. He left them once more for Houston Rockets in 2010 after signing a 3 year $ 15 million contract.
Finally he was traded to Wolves during the NBA 2011 draft. His performance and movements were limited due to a micro fracture in his left knee. That is why he played only 15 games in this season and had announced his retirement
early on 29th June 2012.
The 36 year old has averaged 11.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists in his career.
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