Former UK standout Darius Miller, center, believes Reed Sheppard will do “great things” in the NBA. (Vicky Graff Photo)
Darius Miller won a state championship at Mason County and was also named Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball in 2008. Once he got to Kentucky, he won a national title in 2012 to give him three honors no other Kentucky player has been able to do.
Miller played in a school-record 152 games at Kentucky and then played in 271 NBA games with New Orleans and Oklahoma City as well as two years overseas. He’s now living in Lexington and joined the UK alumni team La Familia coaching staff for The Basketball Tournament.
However, Miller is also paying close attention to what Reed Sheppard is already doing in the NBA summer league after being the third pick in the recent NBA draft. The former North Laurel star was Kentucky’s 2023 Mr. Basketball but did not win a state title or national championship.
“I’m definitely a fan. I wish the best for him. I love his approach to the game. I love how he plays the game at his own pace and he has a great basketball IQ,” Miller said. ”I’m rooting for him. I wish him nothing but the best.
“I got to see him play one game in high school and loved what I saw. I have been a fan of his and I think he’s gonna do great things and hopefully have a long, healthy career.”
Miller became a role model for Kentucky youngsters with his state and national titles. He hopes Sheppard’s success will have the same impact.
“I think I was able to do what I did on the basketball court to kind of let everybody know that anything is possible. If I can do it, anybody out here can do it,” he said. “He’s the same thing. He’s a great example for all Kentucky kids. He works and plays the game the right way. It’s really pretty cool to see what he’s already done.”
Miller is also a fan of new UK coach Mark Pope and attended his introductory press conference.
“I’ve briefly talked with him. I’m giving him my full support. He’s a former player, won a championship. I know he knows the expectations, so I’m just trying to be there to support him in any way I can,” Miller said.
Miller is back living in Lexington as he pursues various business interests. He’s glad his daughters, ages 9 and 6, can enjoy the slow pace of Lexington and see familiar faces and family.
“It’s just good to get back and get connected with the people that have supported me and showed me love throughout my whole career,” he said.
He won’t rule out a potential coaching career but maybe not at the level some would expect. He is considering coaching more from the “youth perspective” because of the experiences he had playing basketball earlier in life.
“I’ve been thinking about youth sports and trying to build on the culture. We have a basketball culture here in Kentucky and maybe I could help build on that a little bit,” he said.
3 Responses
So happy for the success and gracious approach to life as Darius has never wavered from being a role model for KY youths.
Thanks, Larry, for pointing out what Miller did which no other player has done. KY MR BB, State Champ & NCAA Title! I forgot about the 152 games he played in! That’s 38/year which is virtually out of reach for anyone to catch, since he played in every game as a freshmen and stayed at UK 4 full years.
No title in 2012 without cohesive Miller on the team. MKG showed his class and recognition of Miller when he said he wanted Darius to start in the Regional game when Darius scored over 20 points (and if I recall correctly, was the Regional MVP). Davis, Lamb, Jones & others were all TEAM players and Darius infused the team with the strong KY background.
Glad he met Pope and he’s a fan of Reed. Nice compliments.
Reed is the #2 choice for rookie of the year based on casino odds, behind only 7’-5” Edey.
Anyone who thinks Perry is at the bottom of the 12 players this season does not really grasp the amazing impact being a KY native has on those who wear UK on their jersey.
Great article!
👍👍👍
Who was the kid in yellow, who shot lights out during breaks at TBT in Rupp? all 2’6" of him, he was a definite future UK Star in the making. Just curious if he was the son of one of the players? Miller was a fan favorite. Glad we have a coach that values Kentucky players.