Mike Miller Three-Point Record Game 2014
The veteran sniper who stretched the floor and tied a playoff record in Memphis.
Mike Miller's tenure with the Memphis Grizzlies is a cornerstone of the franchise's 'Grit and Grind' identity. While often overshadowed by the frontcourt dominance of Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph, Miller provided the essential spacing that defined the team's championship aspirations during the mid-2010s. His most celebrated individual performance involved a historic display of three-point shooting in the playoffs, cementing his legacy as a clutch veteran who elevated Memphis into serious contender status.
- Player
- Mike Miller
- Team
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Date
- April 26, 2013
- Opponent
- Portland Trail Blazers
- Record Type
- Tied NBA Playoff Record for 3PM (7)
- Venue
- Landers Center, Memphis
- Status
- Completed
Lore & Background
This era marked a cultural shift in Memphis basketball. Miller's calm demeanor contrasted with the intensity of his teammates, providing a necessary counterbalance during high-pressure moments. His playoff contributions were not merely statistical but psychological; every made three signaled that the Grizzlies could win any way they needed to. This specific game remains a touchstone for fans recalling the team's deepest runs before the franchise eventually moved toward a new identity.
In Their Own Story
The arena hummed with tension, the air thick with anticipation as the Grizzlies trailed in the series. Miller caught the ball at the top of the key, his feet set against the hardwood. The defender lunged, but Miller rose smoothly, releasing the shot before contact could be made. It was a sound that echoed throughout the building—the swish of the net. He turned immediately back to defense, no celebration, just business. That night, he didn't just make shots; he changed the geometry of the game.
Reader's Guide
Miller's performance relied on elite off-ball movement and catch-and-shoot efficiency. Defenses often focused on stopping the pick-and-roll between Gasol and Conley, leaving Miller open in the corners or wings. The turning point came when Portland decided to double-team Randolph early. Miller capitalized immediately, forcing the Blazers to respect his range. By hitting multiple threes in succession, he collapsed their defensive scheme. Emotionally, this game validated the 'Grit and Grind' style. It proved that physicality alone wasn't enough; precision shooting was required to close out games. For fans, it remains a reminder of the team's peak potential during that era.
Did You Know?
- Miller entered Memphis having already won three NBA championships with Miami and Cleveland.
- His seven playoff threes tied the NBA record at the time for most in a single game.
- He was part of the Grizzlies' Western Conference Finals run in the following season.
- The venue for this game predated the opening of FedExForum by six months.