Miles Bridges Apology and Second Chance with the Charlotte Hornets
Miles Bridges and general manager Mitch Kupchak held a press conference after signing a one-year, $7.9 million qualifying offer to return to the Charlotte Hornets. The former Michigan State star apologized to everyone, especially his family, for missing the 2022-2023 season due to domestic violence.
Bridges said he prioritized therapy and self-improvement while away to become a better person his family and community could be proud of. The team’s executives carefully considered reacquiring Bridges, who was traded to the Clippers in 2018. They followed the Los Angeles legal case and the NBA’s 30-game suspension. Bridges will miss the first 10 games of the season as punishment.
Bridges pleaded no contest to one domestic violence charge in November for attacking his two children’s mother. On social media, the victim showed bruises, cuts, and swelling on her face, arm, and leg. Bridges received probation and 100 community service hours.
Kupchak said he gave Bridges a second chance because of his remorse, accountability, and promise not to do it again. The organization thinks people can change.
Bridges expressed gratitude for the chance to prove himself again, vowing to show that he is the same person he was five years ago when drafted. The basketball star was excited to return and start the season.
Bridges acknowledged his community role and sought to rebuild fan trust while away from the court. He acknowledged the influence he can have on others, especially children.
Bridges will lead the Hornets alongside Terry Rozier and Gordon Hayward. LaMelo Ball, the 2021 Rookie of the Year, enters his fourth season with leadership potential.
The team will have Bird Rights to re-sign Bridges after the 2023-2024 season if he accepts the qualifying offer. Bridges wants to stay in Charlotte, where he was drafted and developed.
Bridges’ press conference symbolized his determination to move forward, learn from his mistakes, and contribute positively on and off the court.
