Rookie's Bold Move: Myron Gardner's Journey and the NBA's Unwritten Rules
A Heated Exchange with Klay Thompson
Myron Gardner, a young player from Detroit, Michigan, has recently found himself in the spotlight for a heated exchange with NBA veteran Klay Thompson. The incident raised questions about respect and hierarchy in professional sports.
Gardner, who is new to the league, called Thompson "trash" during a game, which did not go unnoticed. Thompson's fiery response, captured on camera, quickly went viral, sparking a wave of curiosity about the rookie's background.
Gardner's Journey to the NBA
Gardner's path to the NBA has been anything but straightforward. Born and raised in Detroit, he honed his skills on local courts and in community gyms.
- Physical Attributes: Standing at 6'5" to 6'6" and weighing around 220 pounds, he developed the physicality and versatility of a modern wing player.
- High School Career: Began at Detroit Loyola, later transferred to SPIRE Academy in Ohio, a program known for shaping elite talent.
- College Journey:
- Georgetown: Brief stint before transferring.
- South Plains College (Texas): Averaged 13.8 points and 7.1 rebounds per game.
- Little Rock University: Led the Trojans in rebounds and steals, ranked second in points with 13.2 per game.
Undrafted but Undeterred
Despite his growth, Gardner went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft. Undeterred, he joined the G League and eventually signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat in July 2025.
Personal Background
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Family & Religion: Details remain private, though Detroit's strong church-centered community culture may offer clues.
The Road Ahead
As a rookie, Gardner is just beginning to write his story in the NBA. While the incident with Thompson may have put him in the spotlight, it is his work on the court that will ultimately define his career.
- Playtime: 9 minutes across 3 NBA games
- Future: With focus and persistence, Gardner has the opportunity to shape his future in the league.
