Despite sharing an identical last name, playing the same sport, and entering the NBA in the exact same draft class, Mikal Bridges and Miles Bridges are not related. They aren't brothers, cousins, or long-lost family members. The persistent confusion surrounding their relationship is one of the most common mix-ups among casual basketball fans, fantasy sports managers, and sports bettors.
Mikal Bridges plays for the New York Knicks, earned a reputation as an elite perimeter defender, and won national titles at Villanova. Miles Bridges plays for the Phoenix Suns, built his reputation as an explosive athletic forward, and starred at Michigan State. Beyond sharing a surname and a draft year, their backgrounds, playing styles, and career paths diverge completely.
The Origins of the Confusion
The mix-up started long before either player stepped onto an NBA floor. Both forwards rose to national prominence during the college basketball season and entered the 2018 NBA draft as lottery prospects.
Media analysts frequently discussed them side-by-side during mock drafts and televised broadcasts. Mikal was selected 10th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers before heading to the Phoenix Suns on draft night, while Miles was selected 12th overall by the Los Angeles Clippers and immediately traded to the Charlotte Hornets. Hearing two players with identical last names drafted two picks apart naturally convinced many viewers they were related.
- Draft Class: Both were selected in the first round of the 2018 draft.
- Position: Both play forward positions.
- Name: Both share the surname Bridges, though pronounced with slight phonetic variations in everyday commentary.
Mikal Bridges: Background and Career Profile
Mikal Bridges was born on August 30, 1996, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Raised primarily by his mother, Tyneeha Rivers, Mikal developed his game locally before starring at Great Valley High School and moving on to Villanova University. Under head coach Jay Wright, he won two NCAA national championships in 2016 and 2018.
Known for his extraordinary wingspan and durable iron-man streak, Mikal earned the nickname "The Warden" for his lockdown perimeter defense. His professional journey spans several franchises:
- Phoenix Suns (2018–2023): Developed from a 3-and-D prospect into an elite starter, helping the Suns reach the 2021 NBA Finals.
- Brooklyn Nets (2023–2024): Erupted into a primary offensive focal point after being traded in the blockbuster deal for Kevin Durant.
- New York Knicks (2024–Present): Traded to Manhattan, where he reunited with several of his former Villanova college teammates to chase deep playoff runs.
Miles Bridges: Background and Career Profile
Miles Bridges was born on March 21, 1998, in Flint, Michigan. He attended Flint Southwestern Academy before transferring to Huntington Prep School in West Virginia for his high school years. A five-star recruit, Miles chose to play college basketball for Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans, where he earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors and consensus second-team All-American recognition.
Miles established himself as a high-flying, versatile forward capable of playing both the small forward and power forward spots. His physical style of play and explosive dunking ability made him an instant fixture of highlight reels. After spending the foundational years of his career with the Charlotte Hornets, Miles transitioned to the Phoenix Suns, continuing his career out West.
Comparing Their Playing Styles
While casual fans mix them up due to their names, their approaches on the court are distinct.
Mikal operates primarily as a lean, hyper-efficient wing defender who thrives on cutting, transition play, and floor spacing. He rarely misses games, holding one of the most remarkable consecutive-game appearance streaks in modern professional basketball.
Miles plays a more bruising, athletic style. He attacks the glass aggressively, finishes powerfully through contact, and functions as a traditional forward who can score inside and out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Mikal Bridges and Miles Bridges cousins?
No, they share no familial relation. They just happen to share a common surname.
Who was drafted higher in the 2018 NBA Draft?
Mikal Bridges was drafted higher, going 10th overall to the Philadelphia 76ers. Miles Bridges was selected 12th overall by the Los Angeles Clippers.
Do they play for the same NBA team?
No. Mikal plays for the New York Knicks, while Miles plays for the Phoenix Suns.
How do you pronounce their first names?
Mikal is pronounced mi-KAL, with the emphasis on the second syllable. Miles is pronounced MY-olz, a traditional two-syllable first name.
Have they ever played on the same team?
No, neither player has suited up for the same NBA franchise during their professional careers, though their paths crossed briefly when Mikal spent his early years with the Suns before Miles joined the franchise later.
