Mikal was taken by surprise when the 76ers, who played in his hometown, selected him in a trade.
Mikal Bridges was traded from Phoenix to Brooklyn in a big transaction, where he is now employed. He was also a part of a trade that sent him from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Suns on draft night, so that wasn’t the only transaction he was involved in.
It was surprising because Bridges was a natural fit for Philadelphia, having grown up there and having his mother work for the 76ers at the time. Mikal was a great fit for the Sixers, as he provided support to All-Stars Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, who also happen to be Bridges’ teammates in Brooklyn.
I’ve been a Sixers fan ever since our time in college. After we won, I felt that I would be a perfect fit for this team, so I decided to play. It’s okay with me if they require 3-and-D. Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart’s show Roommates featured Bridges saying, “I put the hat on, I’m getting emotional, and I go through the whole Philly media with my hat on.”
My first thought upon discovering my mother’s illness was, “Damn, I know my mom’s sick.”
Bridges had no idea who Phoenix was.
Bridges was surprised to be moved because he did not think highly of Phoenix. It was a change of scenery from Villanova, where Mikal had received every imaginable college basketball honor.
Mikal was furious at what had happened, but he kept it inside. It was believed that he would play close to his birthplace and spend time with his mother at home, but Zhaire Smith was more vital to Philly, and Phoenix wanted him.
“I was absolutely insane.” Coach Wright really came over to talk to me after it was all over and said, “You really did a great job.” Maintain a straight expression while that’s going on.” Mikal continued.
Bridges relished his stay in Phoenix after that.
Following a challenging start in Phoenix, Mikal received news that he had made the top 10. Throughout his five years in Phoenix, he was one of the best defenders in the league and an important supporting cast member.
He was a valuable player deserving of a big salary because of his reputation. Mikal’s value rose to the point in 2023 that he was traded for Kevin Durant. Not too far from Philadelphia, in Brooklyn, Bridges currently plays with Ben Simmons, a former star player for the Philadelphia 76ers.
