Hard Work Gets Noticed

     Just getting the opportunity to work for the Grizzlies NBA team might be special enough. Brianne Miller, who had previously been working a retail position got noticed by the team management and upon inquiring about her work ethic, were told by that they would be crazy to not hire her. And just like that she began what was originally a part time position as Equipment Assistant. Shortly thereafter the league made the position a required spot for each team and full time hours came with the new rules. When asked how it is she could be around such large, intimidating athletes Brianne credits her mom stating, "she was a Captain in the United States Army so she had to lead soldiers all the time. She was only 5'3" and was bossing around 6'2" guys!" Her mom went on to advise Miller that is she was ever blessed with a good opportunity to grab it and keep your foot on the gas.

    She must have listened to mom because Brianne's job on game day primarily entailed making the visiting team comfortable and she always did her best to make that happen. "I make sure the Away Team (feels) at home. They are travelling from state to state and they are tired so its my job to make sure everything is running smoothly (for them)." Though a Grizzlies employee, Miller spent her youth adoring LeBron James and collecting quite a shoe collection to prove her loyalty. Originally a hobby that was meant to compete with her cousin's Jordan collection, she quickly became a huge fan of James and followed his career. On one such fateful evening when the Lakers were in town she attended to them as visitors like she always did and got noticed by, you guessed it...Lebron.

    In a wholesome sports moment James addressed her at the end of the game, gave her a bear hug and handed her the signed shoes he had just taken off. Upon releasing Brianne from his embrace she immediately broke into tears realizing that her hero had not only noticed her but given her the gift of a lifetime in that of some very expensive, autographed shoes. She has already been offered $100,000 for the coveted prize but has refused stating that there is no price that would cause her to give them up. Kudos to her for that resolve and kudos for a well deserved moment of recognition from your childhood hero!