Nets GM Marks Impressed With Rookie Brown's Demeanor

The Brooklyn Nets' top overall draft pick, Mikel Brown Jr., is yet to make his preseason debut as he recovers from a lingering ankle injury.

But, he continues to say and do the right things early into his NBA career.

On Friday, General Manager Sean Marks talked about Brown and what has impressed him so far.

"He doesn't act like a rookie. He has a presence about him that you'd say, he's kind of been there, done that before. Took guys to dinner, took guys under his wing," Marks said. "He's a vocal leader... He shares the ball, very encouraging teammate... He wanted the best for others, and that really resonated within the locker room."

This type of unselfish leadership has been evident through multiple different players, with Michael Porter Jr. and Julius Randle each recently talking about being examples for their teammates to follow.

For Brown, who remains questionable to appear in the Nets' remaining preseason bouts, continued missed time will likely land him on the bench to start his NBA career.

But, the Nets have the guard depth to allow Brown to get acclimated, allowing Egor Dëmin to carry the majority of the early ball-carrying duties.

Brown's injury history is a bit concerning, as his ankle injury has lingered since the NBA Summer League and he also missed time in college.

But, Brown has been doing everything he can to get back on the court, as the told the New York Post's Brian Lewis on Oct. 5.

"Yeah, as of right now they’re just telling me you could get back moving a little bit, really just trying to get the strengthening it up back,” Brown said about his injury. “I mean, I am back on the court moving. That’s all I’m really worried about right now. I’m just taking it one step at a time.” 

At Summer League, Brown averaged 16.7 points, 4.0 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, displaying the playmaking abilities that made him the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

After missing the beginning of the California Classic, Brown worked his way back to significant minutes, looking more comfortable and dynamic with each game.

In his first appearance, Brown delivered multiple high-level wraparound passes to his teammates on the wing, while also knocking down a corner 3-pointer for his first professional basket.

Defensively, Brown looked like a difference-maker, using his length and size to pressure opposing guards and force turnovers.

Brown's ability to space the floor and play-make is a perfect fit alongside Brooklyn's wing pair of Randle and Porter who benefit from players kicking out to them for drives or shot opportunities.

It may take some time for Brown to get back to speed, especially with this additional missed time, but the Nets' front office feels like they hit on their first-round draft pick.