Prior to becoming one of the NBA’s most intelligent players over his impressive 17-year career, Andre Miller honed his playmaking skills during four notable years at the University of Utah.
Despite being born and raised in Los Angeles, he confessed to rarely visiting home while in college.
Instead, he opted to spend his summers in Salt Lake City, where he had the incredible chance to learn from and compete with Utah Jazz legends like John Stockton, Jeff Hornacek, and Karl Malone.
On the “All The Smoke” podcast, Andre reflected on those formative years, recalling Hornacek’s generosity in offering shooting tips and Stockton’s relentless reminders about his fitness level.
Focus on Basketball in Utah
Though Utah may not be the first destination that comes to mind for NBA players, it provided Miller with the ideal environment to refine his skills without the distractions of competing sports.
“I gained a wealth of knowledge in Utah. The absence of football competitions made it easier to focus on basketball,” he noted. “After leaving Los Angeles in high school, I only returned home once in five years because I was eager to train with the Jazz players stationed there during the summer.”
Intense Pickup Games
As the NBA season approached, the Jazz players began to engage in more pickup games, which Miller was privileged to join. However, he described these sessions as far from ordinary.
“I wanted to join in, but their pickup games required UCLA-style plays. They treated it seriously,” Miller remembered. “I learned a great deal from Jeff Hornacek and Bryon Russell, constantly seeking them out to play throughout Salt Lake.”
Mastering the Game’s Nuances
Unlike most guards, Miller wasn’t known for his speed or jumping ability. However, his resourcefulness and high basketball IQ compensated for any physical limitations, making him a diligent student of the game.
“I recall one instance when Jeff Hornacek, after a long practice, pulled me aside to help improve my shooting,” Miller said. “His willingness to coach me was invaluable and meant a great deal. Despite having a family, he took time to show me how to shoot properly.”
Stockton’s Tough Love
Miller also described Stockton’s no-nonsense approach, as he was famous for calling out players about their fitness levels.
“Stockton is a legend in my eyes, but he wasn’t always the easiest on me,” Miller mentioned. “If he noticed any excess weight, he’d let you know, saying, ‘Get off the court; you’re not in shape.’
A Masterclass Experience
It’s no wonder that Miller became one of the most dependable point guards in the league during the 2000s. While most players his age were still learning, he was receiving invaluable lessons from iconic figures in basketball.
