Glendale Community College (14-4) is currently one of the hottest Division-II college programs in the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) - winners of their last (3) games on the season, and also posting some strong numbers on the season. After having a strong high school performance, but flying under the recruiting radar, talented 6-foot-6 freshman Stephan Miller has made an immediate impact this junior college season for legendary Head Coach Ken Carrillo, and is having a major breakout freshman season for the Gauchos. Miller's exceptional performance this season has been a major reason this season for the program's success, as Miller has taken over the top spot in the conference in scoring, and also is among the league-leaders in rebounding this season, while posting impressive numbers from the field.
Miller at 6-foot-6, is a true mismatch for opposing teams, and he has been very effective in his play for Coach Carrillo and his staff. Miller is taking the ACCAC by storm this season, and much like his teammate Kenny White, who is also among the league-leaders in scoring this season, Miller has emerged as one of the top performers in the conference - but Miller is doing it as a mere freshman.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Ken Carrillo and a fast-pace offensive style of play, Miller has recently climbed to the top of the conference scoring charts. He’s now leading the ACCAC in scoring with an impressive 20.1 points per game average. Alongside his scoring, Miller is also averaging 8.4 rebounds (ranking seventh in the conference), while shooting 55.7% from the field.
Miller’s journey started at Liberty High School in Arizona, where he had a very good career under longtime successful Head Coach Mark Wood, but was very well under-recruited. He chose Glendale CC to further his development, and it’s paid off in a big way. Miller is a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. He can score both inside and out, has a strong physical frame to finish in the paint, and a smooth mid-range game. As a versatile 3-4 combo forward, he can handle the ball in transition and is a strong rebounder and finisher in traffic. Miller is a sleeper prospect that has proven his effectiveness, and is extremely productive.
Thanks to Miller’s major contributions this season, Glendale is currently 14-4 and one of the hottest Division-II programs in the conference, with a current three-game winning streak. As the season progresses, Miller’s stellar performance is catching attention from college programs. He is setting himself up to have the option to return as a sophomore, but with these kinds of numbers, he’s definitely drawing interest for a potential jump to a four-year program next season. He will have a big decision to make for himself at season's end, as he mulls over his future college options, which should develop nicely for him this spring.
Stephen Miller is another example of how the junior college route can provide a platform for under-the-radar talent. His hard work and dedication have made him one of the top juco prospects in the West.
I will continue to follow Miller and the Glendale program this junior college season, as Glendale pushes to challenge top teams like undefeated Pima this season, as we head into the second half of the season. I will also continue to follow the recruitment and play of Miller throughout the season, and bring you any updates as they continue to develop.
