Patrick Mills creates a niche for himself at the London Olympics – NBA News
The Olympics are an opportunity for an athlete to not only clinch glory and represent his country, but also to secure a future for himself in his sport of choice. And Patrick Mills has done just that.
The 23 year old guard led the Australian basketball team throughout the tournament, and was a big reason why they were able to reach the quarter finals of the London Olympics. Sadly, the U.S team came in the way of the Aussies,
routing them 119-86 in the quarter final.
However, Mills was outstanding even in the loss as he attempted to lead his team to an upset victory over the US team. He finished with 26 points in the game, and averaged 21 points for the whole tournament. The guard had a 39
point game – highest points ever scored in an Olympic game - against Great Britain and scored the game winner in a pool match against Russia.
Mills plays for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA and sat on the sidelines last season working hard and waiting for his opportunity to shine. Now after a tournament of excellence, many believe that the opportunity is finally here.
Carmelo Anthony is one of those people, and is looking forward to facing him on the court once again next season.
''Patty was playing well the whole tournament. He was shooting the ball well and running that team. He was getting out in the open court and making plays for everyone and himself. You can tell he's grown as a basketball player.
It's hard to prepare for a guy like Mills,” said Anthony.
Mills will return to the NBA next season for his second season with the Spurs. And make no mistake about it, Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich will have Mills in his mind when he gets down to making the team strategy for next season.
Brett Brown is an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs and was all praise for the point guard from Australia.
“I think he is [ready for more responsibility] and more importantly [Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich] thinks he is. I know Pop is really looking forward to giving him that opportunity,” said Brown.
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