Ranking the 5 best small forwards in the 2023 NBA Draft

NBA Draft #1: Brandon Miller, Alabama

The talent is undeniable with Brandon Miller. But the narrative around the Alabama Crimson Tide star is also well known, making Miller one of the more controversial figures in this year’s draft.

Miller was the best player in college basketball last year, or at least the best that is coming out to the NBA. The wing averaged 18.8 points and 8.2 rebounds per game during his lone season in Tuscaloosa, earning Second Team All-American honors and winning SEC Player of the Year as a freshman.

His versatility and size made Miller a dominant player in the sport this season. He’s 6-foot-9 with the ability to space the floor and defend a wide array of positions. He has a long frame and the ability to make plays, showing a propensity to pass with either hand.

Miller is also a good three-point shooter. He’s long and has a high release point, allowing him to shoot over defenders and average nearly 40 percent on his long-distance attempts.

Miller is a bit skinny for his size, which could make defending bigger players difficult, despite his switchability. His do-everything-attitude can also get him into some trouble, such as when he commits too many turnovers or keeps shooting when he doesn’t have it (see: 3-of-19 in a Sweet Sixteen loss).

There’s also the character concern. Miller doesn’t seem to be in any real legal trouble following his alleged association with a murder weapon, but that doesn’t stop the issue from raising red flags. He hasn’t addressed it publicly in a way many people have found satisfactory to this point.

As long as NBA teams feel comfortable with Brandon Miller’s past – both on and off the court – he’ll be a worthy lottery selection in the draft.