NCAA Tournament 2000 - Donovan wants Miller back in Gainesville

Donovan wants Miller back in Gainesville
Associated Press

INDIANAPOLIS -- It's hard to imagine Florida forward Mike Miller would want to leave after a performance like that.

Hassled and nearly invisible in the Gators' 89-76 loss to Michigan State in the national title game Monday night, Miller finished with 10 points and three rebounds.

The sophomore is considering entering the NBA draft.

"Everyone wants to play at the next level," Miller said. "But I think when it comes to make the decision, it's what's best for me and what's best for the team. I'm sure I'll made the decision here shortly. A lot of it is Coach's advice."

Coach Billy Donovan left little doubt about his feelings.

"Mike's best decision for himself or his career would be to come back," Donovan said. "I know a lot of college coaches say that because they want to keep the team intact. And sometimes, NBA scouts think differently."

Earlier in the week, Miller said he would likely go pro if scouts projected him as a top-10 pick. Several scouts have projected him in that range.

The McDonald's All-American from Mitchell, S.D., averaged 14.3 points this season and was the closest thing to a go-to guy the Gators had.

He earned the spotlight by making the game-winning shot at the buzzer in the first round against Butler.

If he leaves, Miller would join senior Kenyan Weaks as the only Gators to depart.

Freshmen Brett Nelson and Donnell Harvey also are considered NBA material, but neither is expected to leave after this season.

"I don't think anybody on our team is remotely close to being a pro," Donovan said. "There are some guys down the road who could be pros. But they're not ready, not physically or mentally, right now."


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