Report: Westchester Knicks’ Head Coach Mike Miller Expected To Join David Fizdale’s Staff

Mike Miller has been a focal point in player development in his tenure with the Westchester Knicks. Not only has the team put players in the best position to earn opportunities in the NBA, but Miller, along with his coaching staff, has played a role in building a top-notch development organization. With an opening on New York’s staff, the Knicks are promoting Miller.

“Barring an unforeseen change,” Miller is expected to join David Fizdale’s staff as an assistant coach next season, according to Ian Begley of SNY.

Miller played a significant role in building Westchester’s program. When he joined the team, the Knicks were in their second season and were coming off a 10-40 season. Miller brought more than 25 years of experience, including two years as an assistant coach with the Austin Spurs. He was named the 2017-18 G League Coach of the Year and players gave their thoughts on what makes him in detail with player development.

The Knicks experienced great success in the past four seasons. Westchester went 102-98 and made three appearances in the G League postseason. Nine players earned a combined 14 call-ups, while their nine call-ups in the past two seasons are the most in the G League.

Miller is a defensive oriented coach and has built some high level teams in the G League. Westchester ranked No. 1 in opponent field goal percentage (42.5 percent), No. 2 opponent points per game (105.0), No. 2 in defensive rating (102.3), No. 2 opponent points in the paint (45.0), No. 3 in opponent fast break points (11.6), and No. 5 in opponent points off turnovers (17.4) during the 2018-19 season.

New York and Westchester have built continuity where Mike Miller instilled similar schemes that David Fizdale ran in New York, which led to players making an easy transition to the Knicks and have an impact on the team.