Miles McBride found the waiting the most difficult, but it’s not like he’s never done it before.
The second-year Knicks guard missed his whole junior basketball season at Moeller High School in Cincinnati due to a foot injury sustained while playing quarterback for the football team. Following his commitment to play college basketball at West Virginia, he did not play football during his senior year.
The 2021 second-round pick saw little action as a rookie and to begin this season. This week, however, McBride replaced Derrick Rose in the Knicks’ rotation, and he has aided Tom Thibodeau’s squad to three consecutive victories heading into Sunday’s home game against Sacramento.
“I knew coming out of college that it would be difficult to play behind Kemba Walker, D-Rose, and Alec Burks. “This year, it’s still D-Rose and now Jalen [Brunson],” the 22-year-old McBride said following his season-high 10 points and two steals in 24 minutes during Friday’s victory in Charlotte. I knew it was time to improve on my game and that my opportunity will present itself.
When asked how he prepared for patience as a rookie NBA player, McBride recalled his high school days as a two-sport athlete.
The defense of Miles McBride has helped the Knicks begin a three-game winning streak.
I would say during my junior year of football, when I was wounded. “We had a very talented basketball squad. We had Jaxson Hayes, who is currently with the Pelicans, and many other D-1 players. I was forced to miss the entire basketball season. I realize that I must be patient and that everything happens for a reason, and I must continue to focus on my mental and physical health.”
McBride and recent starter Quentin Grimes have made significant contributions in expanded responsibilities, particularly on the defensive perimeter. During their three-game winning streak, the Knicks have stopped the Cavaliers, Hawks, and Hornets to 20.6% 3-point shooting, and Thibodeau says the two rookie guards have “a lot” to do with it.
“They read the situation well. They eliminate airspace. They play physically without fouling, are extremely disciplined, and have a flair for the game,” Thibodeau said. “Long. They are adept at challenging shots. And several were missed by the Hornets. However, many of them were adequately disputed.”
Even with the absence of forward Obi Toppin (fractured fibula), Thibodeau kept Rose and Cam Reddish on the bench for the third consecutive game. He played with reserve center Isaiah Hartenstein and Jericho Sims (two points in 12 minutes).
»Knicks’ Miles McBride waiting for shot isn’t anything new to him«