Jordan Miller’s journey from Loudoun youth leagues to a four-year, $8.3 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers is proof that belief and hard work can overcome any setback.

Miller credits his Loudoun upbringing for his success. In third grade, his parents received a letter from Habitat for Humanity while living in Leesburg, and they spent weekends building their home in Middleburg. Though he was upset to leave his friends, the kindness he found at Banneker Elementary made the transition easier. “So many of the staff helped me feel like I belonged,” Miller says. “That started my happiness in Loudoun.” He remains connected with those who helped shape his experience.

From fourth grade, Miller found more than a team with Coach Williams and D1SA—he found a family. “They believed in me early,” he says. He also credits Jeri Pierre, his “basketball mom,” for ensuring he had everything he needed to play. “I wouldn’t be where I am without her,” he says.

Miller’s high school career had ups and downs that shaped his mindset. He recalls missing a key free throw in a regional playoff game his sophomore year. Instead of letting it define him, he practiced daily. The next season, he sank two game-winning free throws. Reflecting on Loudoun Valley, Miller says the relationships were as impactful as the games. “Playing for Coach Dawson meant a lot,” he shares. “Loudoun is special for that—when I come home, it’s hard to find time to see everyone, but I’m thankful for it.” Coach Dawson has remained one of his biggest supporters, cheering him on from high school to the NBA, even driving to Houston for the Final Four.

After high school, Miller chose George Mason—the first Division 1 school to offer him—because they believed in him and it kept him close to home. But he knew he had to push further. “I knew to get to the next part of my journey, it would mean leaving George Mason,” he says. Though the NBA felt distant, Miller never let doubt win. “The doubt was stronger than the belief,” he admits, “but I knew if I worked as hard as I could, I could give myself a shot.”

After two years, Miller transferred to the University of Miami to play under Coach Jim Larranaga. “It was an experience I never would’ve had otherwise—I didn’t know there was a world beyond Virginia,” he says. The move followed a familiar pattern: get comfortable, find his rhythm, and start again. With new coaches, teammates, and systems, Miller had to redefine his role. “I wasn’t meeting my own expectations, and the stress was real,” he says, “but I’m learning to find comfort in being uncomfortable.”

Miller’s fifth year—granted due to COVID eligibility—proved pivotal. In Miami’s Elite Eight win over Texas, he scored 27 points without missing a shot, joining Christian Laettner as the only players to do so in NCAA Tournament history. “That game changed things,” he says. “It got scouts’ attention, earning a direct NBA Combine invite.”

On draft night, Miller didn’t know if he’d even be selected. The Clippers took him 48th overall in 2023, signing him to a two-way contract. Once again, he faced a new level of discomfort and growth—adjusting to NBA systems, limited minutes, and the pressure to stay ready. But as always, he embraced the grind, and his work ethic and humility stood out.

“It’s been a real learning curve,” Miller says. “You see trades, cuts, and the fight for job security. Everyone’s just trying to take care of their families.”

This shaped his approach: “There are superstars, and then there are role players. You’ve got to figure out where you fit and make the most of it. For me, that means staying ready and building that pro mentality. Playing is an opportunity I never take for granted."

Though there have been starstruck moments, Miller stays focused on learning from veterans and earning his place. Coaches praise his maturity, coachability, and relentless work ethic. Miller’s progress was rewarded with a four-year, $8.3 million contract with the Clippers—another milestone in a career that thrives on embracing the uncomfortable. Now, he steps into the next phase of the cycle—new expectations, new challenges, and another opportunity to grow.

Off the court, Miller is just as committed to giving back. His nonprofit, Industry 11, helps Loudoun kids who can’t afford to play sports—a cause close to his heart. His basketball camps enter their second year this summer. For registration or assistance, visit 1ndustrye1even11.com or follow @1ndustry_e1even on Instagram.

The Virginia Valley Vipers, a professional team in Purcellville, hosted “Hometown Hero – Jordan Miller X Industry 11” on April 27, donating 11% of ticket proceeds to help Loudoun youths attend Miller’s summer camps.

Despite playing alongside NBA stars, Miller says Loudoun still feels like home. “There’s so much love here. Everyone wants to feel at home,” he says. “I’m so thankful for all the support I’ve gotten. I feel blessed.”

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High School
• VHSL 4A Player of the Year (2017)
• All-Time Leading Scorer at Loudoun Valley
• VHSL All-State First Team (2017 & 2018)

College
George Mason University
• Third Team All-Atlantic 10 (2021)
University of Miami
• Second Team All-ACC (2023)
• NCAA Tournament records: 7-7 FG, 13-13 FT, 27 points in Elite Eight
• Miami Career: Top 10 in steals & field goals made

NBA
• Drafted 48th overall by the LA Clippers (2023)
• NBA G League: All-Rookie First Team, 20.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG
• NBA 2K25 Summer League: 25.4 PPG, All-Summer League First Team
• Signed 4-year, $8.3M contract with Clippers (2025)

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From beginner skills to advanced training, Loudoun County offers a variety of local programs and resources to support the athletic journey of our youth.

Ashburn Youth Basketball: ayblva.org

Central Loudoun Basketball: clbl.org

DI Sports & Athletics Basketball:  d1sa.org/

Dulles Youth Basketball: ashburnathleticassociation.com/dulles-youth-basketball.html

Eastern Loudoun Basketball: elbl.org

Farmwell Station: fsbl.org

Loudoun FLEXX Basketball: loudounflexxbasketball.org

Giant Basketball: giantbasketball.com

Loudoun Basketball Academy: lba-attack.org/

Seneca Ridge River Bend Basketball League: srrbbl.org

Western Loudoun Basketball League: wlblhoops.com