Paul George is the archetype for NBA's next generation - ESPN

LONG BEFORE HE impressed Michael Jordan during a summer workout ahead of the Charlotte Hornets selecting him second overall in the 2023 NBA draft, Brandon Miller discovered his «GOAT» while browsing YouTube.

Growing up in Antioch, Tennessee, Miller stumbled upon videos of a smooth-shooting star with limitless range, the ability to soar for impossible dunks, impeccable footwork and the knack for making big plays.

While others in his generation idolize LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and even Stephen Curry, Miller's role model is surprising.

«I just never really studied LeBron,» Miller told ESPN. «I don't knock LeBron. We know LeBron's the GOAT [for many others], best player for sure. But that was never my objective to study LeBron or study Kobe.

»Paul George is the best player in my eyes… I don't really watch anybody else as far as trying to get their moves down. Paul George is my GOAT."

When Miller first made that stunning declaration ahead of the 2023 NBA draft, it prompted ridicule from social media and pundits. But he isn't alone in revering the 33-year-old whose accomplishments in 14 seasons with the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder and the LA Clippers include nine All-Star appearances, two All-Defensive first-team selections and an All-NBA first-team selection.

The 6-foot-7 Miller is part of a growing list of younger players who view the 6-8 Clippers wing — and not James or Curry, whom much of Miller's generation has tried to emulate — as the perfect NBA archetype. George's blend of size, skill and smoothness is inspiring a new generation of tall wings — from high school and NBA courts to the virtual hardwood of NBA 2K.

«It's kind of how the league is built now,» Miller said. «Paul George is the right person to study