Miles “Deuce” McBride, the New York Knicks guard, has discovered life beyond the hardwood involves more than perfecting his jump shot. This past summer brought two profound changes: welcoming his first child and launching his debut as a children’s author.
Summer Brings Double Joy for the Young Guard
What a whirlwind few months it’s been for McBride. The 2025 summer will forever hold special meaning as he and girlfriend Ana Zortea, a former swimmer at West Virginia, celebrated the arrival of their daughter Ace. The naming choice wasn’t random—Ace and Deuce create a charming family theme that speaks to their playful dynamic.
“Having Ace changes everything,” McBride reflects, his voice carrying the wonder that comes with new parenthood. “You think you understand responsibility as a professional athlete, but becoming a father? That’s a whole different level.”
From Court Dreams to Literary Aspirations
Right around Ace’s birth, McBride surprised many by releasing Deuce: The Champion of Friendship, now available on Amazon. The children’s book weaves basketball themes with lessons about empathy and connection—topics close to his heart.
The inspiration traces back to Kobe Bryant’s legacy, particularly his work with young athletes through the Mamba Academy. While McBride admits he wasn’t initially drawn to Bryant as a player, the Lakers legend’s post-retirement philanthropy struck a different chord.
“Publishing a children’s book right when my daughter entered the world feels surreal,” McBride says. “She’ll grow up knowing her dad created something meaningful. I’m hoping this becomes the first of many.”
Bryant’s Influence Shapes McBride’s Mission
McBride’s relationship with Kobe’s example evolved over time. “Honestly, I wasn’t his biggest fan during his playing days,” he admits with a slight grin. “But watching how he dedicated himself to youth basketball after retiring? That’s when I truly became an admirer.”
This shift in perspective planted seeds for McBride’s own ambitions beyond professional basketball. “Being a role model for kids has always mattered to me,” he explains. “Writing this book felt like a genuine way to start building something lasting.”
Classroom Visits and Community Connection
At 25 and entering his fifth NBA season, McBride has thrown himself into promoting literacy through school visits. His upcoming schedule includes stops in Cincinnati—his hometown where he traded quarterback dreams for basketball aspirations—plus several schools in the Bronx and a Manhattan hospital.
The reception has exceeded his expectations. “Teachers and librarians have been ordering multiple copies for their classrooms,” he notes. “Schools are embracing the message, which makes all the effort worthwhile.”
These visits reveal another side of McBride’s personality. Watching a professional athlete read to wide-eyed children creates moments that transcend sports statistics.
Balancing Basketball and Literary Dreams
With Knicks training camp on the horizon, McBride will temporarily step back from his book tour. But his creative wheels keep turning. “I’m already brainstorming the next story,” he reveals, eyes lighting up with the same intensity he brings to practice.
Baby Ace, now several months old, remains his biggest inspiration. “She can’t read yet, obviously, but someday she’ll understand what her dad was trying to accomplish,” McBride says. “I want her to see that athletes can contribute beyond their sport.”
The journey from NBA guard to published author represents more than a career diversification—it signals McBride’s commitment to impact that outlasts his playing days.
