Nets Rookie Mikel Brown Jr. Takes Fans Inside First NBA Media Day

Brooklyn Nets rookie Mikel Brown Jr. gave fans a closer look at his first NBA Media Day, sharing everything from his first professional photo shoots to his excitement about playing at Barclays Center and getting to know his new teammates.

The Nets released a behind-the-scenes video following the sixth overall pick throughout the day, capturing the fun moments along with some of Brown's thoughts as he prepares to begin his NBA career.

Despite spending the day in front of cameras and answering questions, Brown seemed to enjoy the experience, explaining that he doesn't view basketball as just a job.

“I really don't look at this as a job as, you know, I'm enjoying something that I love to do,” Brown said. “I love to do, and I have fun with it.”

The video started with Brown going through a series of studio photo shoots. While the staff worked to get the perfect shots, the rookie joked about his modeling abilities after receiving a few compliments.

“I am not no model whatsoever. I am a basketball player. I play basketball,” Brown said.

He then explained his job in the simplest way possible, saying, “I get the orange ball, and I put it in the orange hoop, and I pass it to my teammate so they can put it in the orange hoop.”

That sense of humor showed up throughout the video as Brown moved between promotional recordings, interviews, and a session with the Nets' 360-degree camera technology. He also got involved in some friendly back-and-forth with people around the facility, including a soccer ball prank that eventually led to him throwing a ball back at the person who started it.

It was a fun look at a side of Brown that fans won't necessarily get to see once the regular season begins.

One of the more memorable moments came when Brown discussed what it means to return to Barclays Center as a professional basketball player.

During an interview about the McDonald's All-American Game, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2027, Brown reflected on his experience playing in the event as a high school prospect. At the time, stepping onto the Barclays Center floor was a major moment. Now, after being selected sixth overall by Brooklyn, he'll get to play there regularly.

“For it to be Barclays and then now Barclays is considered home for me, it's kind of like I can't even put it into words how I'm blessed,” Brown said.

It's a full-circle moment for the young guard, who went from playing in one of the biggest showcases in high school basketball to joining the team that calls the arena home.

Brown also gave fans a preview of what they'll see from him on the court, joking that his headband would be making plenty of appearances this season.

While there were plenty of laughs throughout the day, Brown also spoke about what he's doing to prepare for the jump to the NBA. As a point guard, he understands that learning his teammates' tendencies and knowing how to put them in the best positions to succeed will be an important part of his development.

Brown explained that watching film has long been a part of his routine. He'll review material several times to make sure he understands what is being taught and can recognize what's happening on the floor.

He's already thinking about how to build chemistry with his new teammates, specifically mentioning Julius Randle and Egor Dëmin.

“Learn Julius's game, learn Egor, everybody's game,” Brown said. “Just try to put them in the best position to, you know, be successful.”

For a young point guard entering his first NBA season, that preparation will be important as he adjusts to the speed of the professional game and learns how to work alongside Brooklyn's other players. Brown's focus on understanding his teammates is an encouraging sign as he works toward finding his role with the Nets.

Toward the end of the video, Brown was asked how he was feeling after a busy summer and his first media day. Rather than getting caught up in everything happening around him, he said he's focused on enjoying the experience.

“Obviously just enjoying the moment, you know, just staying present,” Brown said. “First media day for me and, you know, I got many more to come, but, you know, I'm just staying in the moment, staying present and enjoying it.”

He wrapped up the video by thanking fans for tuning in and expressing his excitement for the season ahead.

Nets fans were already showing their support in the comments, with several expressing their belief in Brown's potential. One fan pointed to his maturity, skill, and approach to the game as reasons to believe Brooklyn could have a homegrown star on its hands. Another shared their hope that Brown remains with the Nets for his entire career.

Of course, Brown still has plenty to prove once the games begin, but his first media day allowed fans to get to know him beyond his draft position and what he brings on the court.

With his humor, appreciation for playing at Barclays Center, and commitment to learning his new teammates, Brown made a strong first impression. Now, Nets fans will get to see how that preparation translates when he steps onto the floor for his first NBA season.