Lamont Paris downplays impact Brandon Miller news had on basketball

During his postgame conference after South Carolina lost to Alabama in overtime, head coach Lamont Paris tried to downplay the impact of the Brandon Miller news.

On Tuesday, police testimony came out that alleged Darius Miles, who is being held without bond for capital murder, had asked Brandon Miller to provide the gun he used. Miller wasn’t charged and he played in the game against South Carolina, even hitting the game-winning shot.

“That’s not really on my radar of things, necessarily,” Lamont Paris said. “I mean, it’s a basketball game. Guys go out there and for that 45 minutes it was today, you play basketball. You go out there and you play basketball.”

Paris also said that while off-court things potentially could have affected him, he doesn’t know if they did. He can only speak for himself.

“Sometimes stuff can affect guys, but you go out there and you play basketball. I’m me. I’m not him. So, I don’t know what was on his mind, but I’m sure it was basketball related.”

While Lamont Paris downplayed the impact of the Brandon Miller news, it was obvious that South Carolina fans were aware. It was chaotic in the stands, with fans chanting, “Lock him up,” and a fight breaking out while Miller shot free throws.

Brandon Miller scored 41 points in the game.

Nate Oats on Brandon Miller’s career performance

Alabama head coach Nate Oats evaluated Brandon Miller’s career performance against South Carolina, amid a firestorm of controversy.

“He’s one of the most mentally tough kids I’ve ever coached. So I’m not surprised,” Oats said.

“I mean 41 points? You don’t want to say you expect that. But I’m not surprised he came ready to play, and play well, tonight.”