Adam Zagoria covers basketball at all levels. He is the author of two books and an award-winning journalist whose articles have appeared in ESPN The Magazine, SLAM, Sheridan Hoops, Sports Illustrated, Basketball Times and in newspapers nationwide.
Alabama’s Brandon Miller sparks controversy over ‘pat-down’ introduction handshake
By CHARLIE PARENT& ADAM ZAGORIABrandon Miller, Alabama’s star freshman who was recently linked to a fatal shooting, is once again under scrutiny following his “pat-down” pregame handshake.
“Before I get started on the game, it was brought to my attention after the game about our pregame introductions,” Alabama coach Nate Oats said at his postgame press conference.
“Think that’s something that’s been going on all year. I don’t really know. I don’t watch our introductions, I’m drawing up plays during that time. Regardless, it’s not appropriate, it’s been addressed and I can assure you it will not happen again the remainder of this year.”
On Tuesday, it was reported that Miller transported the gun that ultimately led to the murder of Jamea Jonae Harris last month near the school’s campus.
Miller, a 6-foot-9 freshman forward, is averaging 18.7 points and 8.0 rebounds and is a projected NBA lottery pick. He has not been charged with any crime — and there is no evidence he will be.
Regardless, his pregame handshake has caused an uproar for the tone deaf actions of the young star.
Miller had 41 points and a game-winner against South Carolina on Thursday and 24 points Saturday in a win over Arkansas.
Alabama (25-4, 15-1 SEC), the No. 1 overall projected seed in the NCAA Tournament, needs to win just one of their two remaining regular season games against Auburn or Texas A&M to clinch the SEC title.
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