Today in Boston Celtics history: Reggie Miller says no to Banner 17 squad; 76ers sunk in Orlando bubble

In the annals of Boston Celtics history, Hall of Fame Indiana Pacers legend Reggie Miller turned down a chance to join the 2007-08 team assembled by Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge. Miller, a renowned scorer from beyond the arc, had retired for two seasons after an illustrious 18-year career with the Pacers.

Despite the flattering nature of Ainge's offer, Miller seriously considered the opportunity to return to the Celtics. "I'm always flattered when my name is mentioned as someone who can still help an NBA team win a championship," Miller said via ESPN's JA Adande. However, the prospect of spending eight months on the road was too much for the former Pacer, as he later explained.

While Miller did contemplate the offer, he ultimately decided against it due to concerns about his ability to get into game shape. Celtics coach Ainge later revealed that he would have given Miller more time to prepare if he had known about the obstacle. The Celtics went on to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers, 110-106, in Game 4 of the 2020 NBA Playoffs first-round matchup, marking the first sweep of the Sixers in playoff history.