Miles Bridges Faces 10-Game Suspension

Small forward Miles Bridges will have to sit out for 10 games should he sign another contract, the NBA announced in a statement.

Bridges spent the entire season as a restricted free agent with the Hornets, though he did not play after being arrested and charged with felony domestic abuse. The arrest stemmed from accusations that Bridges assaulted his then-girlfriend in front of their two children.

The case reached an end in November, when Bridges pleaded no contest and received a sentence of three years probation. 

Bridges, 25, was also ordered to attend a year’s worth of domestic violence counseling sessions and parenting classes, along with 100 hours of community service.

The league suspended him for 30 games, with 20 games of the suspension already being served. So should he sign again, he will have to miss the first 10 games “for which he otherwise is eligible and available to play,” the statement read.

He indicated in February that he could return to play the final month of the season — which, of course, never happened.

“It’s been a long process,” Bridges said, via Larry Lage of The Associated Press. “I might be back in March.”

Hornets general manager Mitch Kupchak has indicated the team would wait for the NBA to conclude its investigation before reaching any decisions on Bridges.

Charlotte (27-55) failed to make the playoffs and is headed for the NBA Draft Lottery.

Bridges put together a career-year in 2021-22, averaging 20.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists. All were career-highs.

The following was released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/KyHspQ2SFi

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) April 14, 2023