In an electrifying conclusion to the Summer League, the Miami Heat emerged victorious with a nail-biting 120-118 win over the Memphis Grizzlies, clinching their first Summer League championship. The game, which required overtime to determine the winner, set a new benchmark for high-scoring finals, surpassing the previous record set by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017 with a 110-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.
The thrilling game saw both teams locked at 118 points before heading into overtime. Under Summer League rules, the teams competed to be the first to reach a target score of 120 points. Pelle Larsson scored the deciding basket in overtime, securing Miami's spot in Summer League history. Reflecting on his game-winning shot, Larsson said, “Coach [Dan Bisaccio] drew up a great play we've run in practice a bunch of times. They did a good job guarding it. We have shooters everywhere and they want to help, and I just made it."
This championship clash marked only the second time in Summer League history that a final extended into overtime. The first instance occurred in 2016 when the Chicago Bulls triumphed over the Minnesota Timberwolves with a score of 84-82. Miami's win not only etched their name in the annals of Summer League history but also showcased their resilience and grit under pressure.
Key Performers
The victory was a team effort with multiple Miami players stepping up. Josh Christopher led the way with 24 points, while Kel'el Ware contributed significantly with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Alondes Williams and Cole Swider each added 21 and 19 points respectively, with Larsson finishing with 16 points. Speaking about the team's effort, Coach Dan Bisaccio commented, “[The Grizzlies] made it tough for us. That just speaks volumes to this team. Their willingness to fight through the adversity showed real grit, toughness and of course that competitive will.”
On the Grizzlies' side, Jake LaRavia led the offense with a game-high 32 points. Scotty Pippen Jr. also had an impressive performance with 29 points and 11 assists, while GG Jackson contributed 28 points. The game was a back-and-forth battle with both teams exhibiting exceptional skill and determination.
Crucial Moments
The final moments of regulation were nothing short of dramatic. With 19.6 seconds left, Swider put Miami in the lead, making the score 113-110. However, Jackson responded with a three-pointer with 10.5 seconds remaining, tying the game. Williams was called for a charge with 4.2 seconds left, giving the Grizzlies a chance to win it. Pippen's missed three-pointer in the dying moments of regulation ultimately sent the game into overtime, where Miami would eventually prevail.
The championship game capped off a competitive Summer League tournament filled with outstanding performances. Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was honored as the Summer League MVP. Wilson, who averaged 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game during the tournament, shot 47.3% from the field and an impressive 55% from beyond the arc. Wilson earned a spot on the Summer League first team alongside GG Jackson, Scotty Pippen Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Jordan Miller.
Looking at the second team, contributors such as Jalen Wilson, Bub Carrington, Donovan Clingan, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Jarace Walker were recognized for their standout performances throughout the tournament.
Miami's victory in this historic Summer League championship game is not only a testament to their talent but also to their determination and teamwork. This game will be remembered for its high-scoring nature, intense competition, and the thrilling finish provided by Larsson's game-winning basket.
As the dust settles on this year's Summer League, fans and analysts alike will reflect on the evolution of the league and the emergence of new basketball talents. For now, Miami can bask in the glory of their hard-fought championship victory, having etched their names in Summer League lore.