Miller makes it official, to wear #2 as a Hornet

The New Orleans Hornets announced the signing of second round draft pick Darius Miller earlier today. Miller had an incredible journey leading him to the NBA. He first lived the dream of every commonwealth kid in history by becoming a Kentucky Wildcat, but his road started with struggles under Billy Gilispie before ending with a near-perfect senior season and a national championship. And now Darius Miller gets to add one more triumph to his adventure. He is officially an NBA player.

Miller will always be number one to Kentucky fans, but he’s set to wear #2 as a New Orleans Hornet. It’s a fitting numerical climb that aptly represents the transformation Miller’s seen in the last few years. From the timid country kid who couldn’t find his shot nor his role in a struggling program to the veteran sharpshooter and professional athlete. Darius was not guaranteed a contract as a second round pick, making this signing a major accomplishment and great sign for his future. Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed, but he’s also set to join Anthony Davis with the Hornets, making New Orleans a home away from home for Big Blue Nation.

In a typically terse manner, here’s what the Hornets had to say about the signing of Miller.

Miller (6-8, 225) was the 2012 SEC Sixth-Man of the Year, helping Kentucky to the national title in New Orleans while posting averages of 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 26.1 minutes per game. The four-year collegian holds the Kentucky record for most games played (152) and is 10th all-time with 175 three-point field goals made.

The Maysville, Ky. native also participated in the 2012 Las Vegas Summer League for New Orleans, averaging 4.4 points and 2.4 rebounds in five games (four starts).

It’s a great joy to see Darius Miller’s continued success. Many a fan has given up on the young man, but he’s never given up on himself.