Miller still wants to play
CHICAGO TRIBUNE — Undrafted out of Purdue, Brad Miller is in his 12th season and, somehow, slower than when his career began.
He’s still effective, though, which is why Miller quelled any speculation Wednesday that he might retire when his seven-year, $68 million ends after this season.
“You know with my basketball IQ I think I can overcome the shortness of athleticism and quickness that I’m finally starting to lose at my age,” Miller said with his typically heavy wit..
On a more serious note, Miller, 33, said he would play for the league minimum if that’s all the free-agent market yields after his $12.25 million salary this season.
“I won’t be asking for the same amount,” Miller said, laughing. “I do call myself a realist. Hopefully, I’ll get more (than league minimum) but it’s not about money. I just want to play. I think I have not too many more but definitely one or two more seasons in me.”
Miller has enjoyed the unlikeliest of careers, making All-Star games and playoffs and millions.
“No way I could’ve predicted this,” Miller said. “I thought maybe I’d get a couple of years in and call it good. It has been an amazing ride. I just kept going.”
Bull run: It’s impossible to predict how much money the Bulls might have left over after trying to sign bigger name free agents. But Miller said he would love to return if given the chance.
“This team is a lot of fun,” he said.
Miller is averaging a monthly-high 29.8 minutes in February because Joakim Noah’s injury has created need for a larger role. But Miller said he isn’t wearing down.
“I don’t do anything off the court,” he said. “I just stay in bed, stay on the couch, play with my daughter when I’m home and get as much rest as I can.”
Calendar turns: Friday marks the one-year anniversary of one of the most eventful days in franchise history. The Bulls learned Johnny “Red” Kerr succumbed in his long battle with cancer while en route to the White House to hang with President Barack Obama. Later that night,Norm Van Lier died unexpectedly.
The Bulls will honor the two titans with an in-game video tribute Friday. Comcast SportsNet also will air tributes to them.
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