>
Andre Miller may be known for an exceptionally long streak of not missing any league games, but the same cannot be said for his regularity with team meetings. The Philadelphia 76ers point guard has gone for 530 games without a miss, but on Friday, he decided to be absent for their final team meeting. Miller’s agent blamed the whole situation on a miscommunication between the team and the player.
Miller wasn’t the only one who missed the boat though, as Theo Ratliff also seemed to be missing when the roll-call came about. The 76ers had just faced an embarrassing Game 6 loss to the Orlando Magic a night earlier, which ended their season, and the absence of two veteran players further soured the mood in the camp. Miller and Ratliff are unrestricted free agents and drew the wrath of team coach Tony DiLeo and President Ed Stefanski.
Stefanski said that the absences were inexcusable and would bring about serious implications.
“I don’t know if that’s sending us a message or what,” said Stefanski when talking about Miller’s behaviour. Miller’s agent spoke to the player and informed the media that Andre believed that the meetings were optional and was not taking any stance as such.
“He would like to re-sign with Philadelphia if the opportunity presented itself,” agent Andy Miller said.
Ratliff had laid out a number of criticisms about the coaching staff after the drubbing of Game 6 and his absence meant that he wouldn’t be there to answer any of the questions put forth. Ratliff had blamed the coach and his staff to not hold players who put in less effort or concentration. Understandably, DiLeo did not agree with the criticism that was brought out.
“We do hold players accountable,” DiLeo said. “Maybe not in the way his definition of accountability is. But we do correct players. We point out things.”
