By Full Court Dream Staff
Two brothers from Ontario are making their mark in the NBA. Leonard Miller of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Emanuel Miller of the Chicago Bulls share more than just a last name — they share a path built on perseverance, international experience, and a commitment to improving against the best competition available.
Leonard Miller – Minnesota’s Versatile Young Forward
Born November 26, 2003 in Scarborough, Ontario, Leonard Miller didn’t take the traditional route to the NBA. His high school journey spanned multiple schools and countries, from Bill Crothers Secondary and Thornlea Secondary in Ontario to Wasatch Academy in Utah and Victory Rock Prep in Florida.
After battling through a serious wrist injury in 2020, Leonard’s late growth spurt — from 6’4” to 6’10” in just 18 months — transformed him into a matchup nightmare. At Fort Erie International Academy, he became a star, leading the school to an Ontario Scholastic Basketball Association title, earning league MVP honors, and gaining over 25 college offers.
He played his final high school season on the Grind Session circuit, facing elite competition and future NBA players, which helped accelerate his readiness for the next level. He represented Team Canada at the 2019 FIBA U16 Americas Championship, winning a silver medal while averaging 4.2 points per game.
Rather than go the NCAA route, Leonard signed with the NBA G League Ignite in 2022, earning a spot in the inaugural G League Next Up Game. In the 2023 NBA Draft, the San Antonio Spurs selected him 33rd overall before trading him to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Now entering his third NBA season, Leonard has split time between the Timberwolves and their G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves, developing into a versatile forward with length, mobility, and upside on both ends of the court.
Emanuel Miller – Chicago’s Steady Two-Way Contributor
Born June 19, 2000, Emanuel Miller also began at Bill Crothers Secondary before stints at La Lumiere School and Golden State Prep, two U.S. basketball powerhouses. Originally committed to Virginia Tech, he followed head coach Buzz Williams to Texas A&M, where he grew into one of the SEC’s most physical forwards.
In 2021, Emanuel transferred to TCU for a fresh start, playing three seasons for the Horned Frogs. His senior year was his best, averaging 15.8 points and 6.1 rebounds and earning Second Team All-Big 12 honors.
After going undrafted in 2024, Emanuel played for the Dallas Mavericks in Summer League, then joined the Texas Legends in the G League. On December 28, 2024, he signed a two-way contract with the Chicago Bulls, splitting time with the Windy City Bulls.
Emanuel’s international résumé is just as impressive as his college career. He helped Canada win gold at the 2017 FIBA U19 World Cup, then took home silver at the 2018 FIBA U18 Americas Championship, where he averaged 17.3 pointsand 7.3 rebounds. His semifinal performance against Puerto Rico — 31 points and 14 rebounds — remains a highlight of his youth career.
He also spent a postgrad season at Golden State Prep in California under coach Humphrey Jackson, preparing him for the rigors of NCAA Division I competition.
Brothers in the Big Leagues
Leonard and Emanuel’s stories are linked not only by blood, but by the path they’ve taken — a combination of Canadian grassroots basketball, U.S. prep programs, and international competition. They are part of the growing wave of Canadian talent impacting the NBA, joining names like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jamal Murray, and Andrew Wiggins.
Both have worn the maple leaf with pride, winning medals for Team Canada and representing the next generation of Canadian basketball.
As of the close of the 2025 NBA season, Leonard continues to develop in Minnesota’s system as a young forward with high upside, while Emanuel carves out a role as a reliable two-way player for Chicago. Their journeys prove that with the right mix of opportunity, work ethic, and adaptability, Canadian players can shine on basketball’s biggest stage.
