From the Hardwood to the Head of the Bench: A Full-Circle Journey

The transition wasn't immediate. During his first nine weeks at Highland, Miller struggled to adjust to the academic rigors. However, the unique ecosystem of Highland—where coaches are mentors and teachers are advocates—caught him before he could fall.

On the court, Miller played under the duo of Coach Schectman and Coach Ross. The two coaches offered a study in contrasts: Ross was the big, beloved personality; Schectman was the quiet tactician. Together, they fostered an environment where Miller was allowed to play through his mistakes. That freedom to fail and grow is exactly what Miller now provides for his own players.

After graduating in 2014, Miller took his talents to Christopher Newport University (CNU). While his freshman year showed promise, the following three seasons were defined by a grueling cycle of injuries. For many, being sidelined is a career-ender. For Miller, it was a career-starter.

He began observing the game through a tactical lens, laying the foundation for a coaching philosophy while his team made two historic Final Four runs. After graduation, Miller’s relationship with CNU’s Coach Krikorian—built on a mutual "love of the game"—led to a part-time coaching role. Despite his youth, Coach Krikorian sent Miller out solo on the recruiting circuit, a massive vote of confidence that signaled Miller’s natural aptitude for the profession.

In 2022, Miller felt the pull of home. When the Head Coach position opened at Highland, he didn't just send an email; he arrived at the interview in a full suit with a comprehensive booklet detailing his coaching stats and philosophy. He wasn't just an alum looking for a job; he was a professional ready to build a legacy.

His first season (2022-2023) was a masterclass in program building. Inheriting a roster with only three returning players, Miller leaned into the Highland ethos: Community off the court creates a team on the court. Alongside his assistant coach (and fellow Highland alum), Miller led the team to a staggering 30-3 record and a state championship.

The 2023-2024 season brought higher expectations and high-profile transfers like Nate Ament. While the team fell in the state semifinals, Miller views it as a pivotal year of growth. He recalls a raw moment in the locker room after a heartbreaking buzzer-beater loss at the John Wall Tournament.

That vulnerability set the stage for the historic 2024-2025 season. Driven by what Miller calls the "power of friendship," the team embarked on a 50-game gauntlet, traveling across the country and defeating the #1 ranked team in the nation. They finished 42-2, capturing Highland’s first-ever Division I State Championship.

For Miller, the 42-2 record is secondary to a more important stat: every graduating senior from that championship team is now playing college basketball with their education fully paid for.

Now in a "rebuilding" year with nine new players, Miller is back to basics, teaching a young squad how to navigate the "bumps in the road" he knows so well. Supported by Athletic Director Gary Leake, Miller’s mission remains steadfast: developing high-level players who are even higher-level people.

As he reflects on his journey from a struggling sophomore to a championship coach, Miller keeps his philosophy simple: Play with joy.