Percy Miller, known by most as Master P, has been appointed the President of Basketball Operations at the University of New Orleans (UNO). This announcement, made on February 26, 2025, signifies a bold step toward revitalizing the Privateers’ basketball program, intertwining the city’s rich musical heritage with its athletic ambitions.
While Master P’s legacy in hip-hop is legendary, his roots in basketball run just as deep. Growing up in New Orleans, he found solace and direction on the hardwood courts, a journey that led him to play collegiately at both the University of Houston and Merritt College in Oakland, California, where he earned a degree in business. His basketball pursuits saw him grace the rosters of the Continental Basketball Association’s Fort Wayne Fury, San Diego Stingrays, and Las Vegas Rattlers. Notably, he had stints with NBA teams, including the Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors, and participated in Summer League play with the Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings.
Beyond his playing career, Master P’s coaching endeavors have been equally impactful. His AAU team, “P. Miller’s Ballers,” clinched three national championships under his guidance. This platform became a nurturing ground for future NBA talents such as DeMar DeRozan, Brandon Jennings, Lance Stephenson, and Jalen Suggs, showcasing his knack for identifying and cultivating raw talent.
Master P’s appointment is more than a ceremonial gesture; it’s a clarion call to rejuvenate a program that once stood as a beacon in collegiate basketball. Reflecting on his new role, he remarked, “As a kid growing up in New Orleans, I can honestly say that basketball changed and saved my life. At that time, UNO was one of the best programs in the country. It was all about Privateer Nation, and there was so much excitement on the Lakefront.” His vision transcends the court, aiming to “bring back that winning tradition to NOLA’s Team” while focusing on “educating and creating future leaders.”
UNO’s head men’s basketball coach, Stacy Hollowell, echoed this enthusiasm, stating, “I am thrilled to add coach Percy Miller to our staff as President of Basketball Operations. Coach Miller cares deeply about his city, the University of New Orleans, and Privateers basketball. We will benefit from his basketball knowledge and his relationships with people within the city and the game.”
Master P steps into his role amid turbulent times for the Privateers. The program is currently under NCAA investigation due to alleged sports gambling violations, leading to the suspension of four players since late January. The team has struggled this season, holding an 11th place position in the Southland Conference with a 4-25 record.
Undeterred, Master P’s resolve to “bring the love and passion back to New Orleans basketball” resonates with a city that thrives on resilience and rhythm. His multifaceted background as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader positions him uniquely to orchestrate a revival that harmonizes athletic excellence with cultural pride.
Master P’s journey from the streets of New Orleans to global hip-hop stages, and now to the helm of UNO’s basketball operations, embodies a narrative of relentless ambition and community dedication. His leadership is poised to infuse the Privateers with a fresh cadence, blending the soulful beats of the city’s musical legacy with the dynamic tempo of basketball.
For a visual insight into Master P’s new role, watch the announcement below:
