Mikel Brown Jr. makes NBA preseason debut with Brooklyn Nets

Brooklyn Nets rookie Mikel Brown Jr. made his long-awaited preseason debut on Wednesday against the Miami Heat after missing the first three preseason games due to a rolled left ankle.

Coming off the bench for 18 minutes, the No. 6 overall draft pick recorded 15 points, including two 3-pointers, and five perfect free throws. He also contributed three assists with only one turnover. Brown noted that his time sidelined allowed him to observe his teammates' playing habits and systems to better prepare for his role as a point guard.

The Nets lost the preseason finale 144-128. Brown expressed excitement about returning to the court, stating he had been working daily on strengthening the muscles around his ankle to ensure his readiness.