Charlotte Hornets sophomore Brandon Miller recently spoke with the media in his exit interview, sharing his insights into his rehabilitation journey and what he expects from the 2025-26 season.
Miller, who underwent surgery in January to repair a torn scapholunate ligament in his right wrist, acknowledged that his sophomore season didn’t go as planned. However, he has made the most of the situation by assuming a leadership role on the team. Despite being sidelined, he maintained a positive attitude and stayed actively engaged with his teammates.
“Everybody came in with the mindset of getting better every day, and they stayed consistent with that mindset,” Miller said. “I just stayed positive, kept everybody engaged, and kept the group well bonded together. I think that’s going to help us this summer and next season.”
Regarding his rehab, Miller emphasized that his recovery is progressing steadily, though he’s not sure when he will be back to full basketball activity. “It’s probably going to be a couple of months, but right now, we’re just taking everything slow, not rushing anything,” he said. “We’re working on the range of motion, which is the most important part.”
As Miller adjusts to life on the sidelines, he has taken on a mentoring role. His extensive film study and discussions with teammates, especially younger players, have helped him feel like an assistant coach, even though he doesn’t consider himself one. “I’m still sticking to the player category,” Miller said. “But I just try to keep everybody engaged, making sure they know who we’re playing and staying focused on the game.”
Miller’s outlook on the team’s future is optimistic. When asked about the core group of himself, LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Mark Williams, Miller expressed confidence that the Hornets’ core could be dangerous moving forward. “We’re a dangerous team with a healthy season,” he stated. “That’s what we’re going to push for next season—everybody’s health.”
Miller also reflected on the frustration of dealing with an injury for the first time in his career, but remains determined to return stronger. “It was a crazy process. I don’t think you can imagine just sitting out every game,” he said. “But one thing I did was just try to bring positivity to the group every day.”
As for his return to full health, Miller is confident his shooting form will come back once he’s fully recovered. “Of course, I’m a shooter. It’s going to come back,” he said.
Miller, 22, averaged career-high 21.0 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.6 assists in 34.2 minutes per game this past season.
