North Charlotte Today

Head Coach Charles Lee commenced the first day of training camp at the Michael W. Krzyzewski Center at Duke University with a significant statement. "We’re in the process of building something really special, and we get to do it in one of the most accomplished buildings in college basketball history," said Lee. "You talk about consistency and being obsessed with daily improvement - say what you want to say, there are a lot of banners up here. Let’s set some standards today. Let’s raise the bar. Make the most of our opportunity that we have right now."

Charlotte's organization has reached this point after extensive efforts, and anticipation is high as camp begins. The offseason saw Jeff Peterson appointed as the new President of Basketball Operations, who quickly restructured the front office by hiring Lee, bringing his championship experience from Boston and Milwaukee. New owners Rick Schnall and Gabe Plotkin have expressed their ambitions to make Charlotte a premier NBA franchise.

On Day 1, LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Brandon Miller were seen practicing long-range shots, signaling promising prospects for the season ahead. "It was the first day, and we got a nice sweat going and went over everything. It was a good day," Ball remarked. "I just wanted to get out and try my hardest... it felt like our first day back in school."

Last season saw limited playtime for Ball, Miller, and Bridges together due to injuries. However, all three are healthy as they start camp this year, raising hopes for an impactful season.

"It was a great day one," Miller commented. "There was a lot of energy. There’s a new coaching staff, and I feel like everybody is getting acclimated here. It’s all about building that bond here early and having a great season this year."

Ball's previous season was cut short by injuries but his dedication over the summer has been evident throughout camp. He plans to wear ankle braces moving forward for added support.

"LaMelo is in a great place from a health standpoint," Peterson noted. "He's had a really good summer... He's put time not only on the court but also in the weight room and training room... I'm really excited to see him take the next steps."

Bridges highlighted Ball's influence on team dynamics: “We're way different (with LaMelo on the court). We’re more organized and get out in transition more.”

Despite Ball's absence last season due to injury, Bridges showed consistency by missing only two games and achieving career-high averages in points (21.1), rebounds (7.3), and assists (3.3). His enthusiasm for this season remains strong.

"I feel like I'm in the best shape I've ever been in heading into this season," Bridges said.

Brandon Miller aims to build on his rookie achievements where he averaged 17.3 points per game—the third-highest rookie scoring average in franchise history—and set new records for three-point field goals by an NBA rookie.

"I think it's important that we have expectations,” Peterson said about Miller’s potential growth.

Miller himself acknowledged his leadership role: “I think this year I just need to lead vocally... I'm here for them [teammates], whatever they need.”

The first day of training camp demonstrated unity among players as they prepared for success together.

Lee concluded: “I think that you can see it in their energy... They made the most of the opportunity... We want to try to do [set high standards] on an NBA level.”

Ball added: “Whenever you're doing something like this, you love it, especially with brothers… It's just amazing.”