Miles Bridges

Bridges is an American forward who has spent his NBA career with the Charlotte Hornets after a draft-night trade from the Los Angeles Clippers in 2018. A high-flying athlete with scoring versatility, he emerged as one of the most productive players in Michigan State history before turning pro after his freshman season.

Born Miles Emmanuel Bridges Sr. on March 21, 1998, in Flint, Michigan, he is the son of Cynthia and Raymond Bridges, a two-time state champion who taught him the game at age two. He attended Flint Southwestern Academy as a freshman, averaging 10 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks, before transferring to Huntington Prep School in West Virginia for his sophomore through senior years.

At Huntington Prep, Bridges developed into a national prospect. As a junior, he averaged 15.7 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.8 blocks, and 2.3 steals per game. He participated in the 2015 Dick's Sporting Goods High School Nationals and faced future NBA players Jaylen Brown and Deandre Ayton. As a senior, he averaged 25 points, 10 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 2.0 steals. He was named a McDonald's All-American and competed in the Jordan Brand Classic.

Bridges committed to Michigan State and played one season under Tom Izzo. He averaged 16.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.5 blocks and was named second-team All-Big Ten and Big Ten Freshman of the Year. He helped the Spartans win the Big Ten tournament and reach the second round of the NCAA tournament. After the season, he declared for the 2018 NBA draft.

The Los Angeles Clippers selected Bridges with the 12th overall pick and traded him to the Charlotte Hornets on draft night. He spent multiple seasons in Charlotte, developing into a primary scoring option and averaging over 20 points per game in his peak seasons. His athleticism and scoring ability made him a fan favorite and a fixture in the Hornets rotation.

Bridges is an explosive forward with elite vertical athleticism, a developing three-point shot, and the strength to finish through contact. He scores on drives, mid-range pull-ups, and transition attacks. Defensively, his athleticism and wingspan allow him to guard multiple positions and generate steals and blocks. His development focus centers on consistency and decision-making as he matures into a veteran role.