Heat’s Summer League Star Reacts to Championship Win
Pelle Larsson, the Miami Heat’s second-round pick, played a crucial role in their Summer League victory, securing the title by defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 120-118. Larsson’s final shot brought Miami to the target score, marking their undefeated streak since their initial loss to the Golden State Warriors.
Selected 44th overall in the NBA Draft, Larsson impressed throughout the Summer League with his offensive and defensive tenacity, traits he showcased during his time at the University of Arizona. Reflecting on his game-winning shot, Larsson credited a well-rehearsed play drawn up by the coach and his ability to capitalize on the opportunity.
Larsson’s performance included scoring Miami’s first seven points, fittingly ending the game by reaching the target score of 120 in overtime. He finished the game with 16 points, four assists, and three rebounds.
Heat’s Impressive Summer League Run
The Miami Heat demonstrated an outstanding Summer League performance, going 8-0 in Las Vegas after a 2-1 record in the California Classic. Summer League head coach Dan Bisaccio, with the team for the last decade, was pivotal in harnessing the talents of players like Larsson and first-round pick Kel’el Ware.
Bisaccio praised the team’s resilience, noting their collective grit and willingness to find solutions during challenging moments. Ware shone in the championship game, scoring 21 points with 10 rebounds and a block. His performance earned him a spot on the NBA’s All-Summer League first team, while Jaime Jaquez Jr. made the second team despite limited play.
Selflessness and Team Spirit
Bisaccio’s leadership led to his promotion to head coach of the Heat’s G-League team, the Sioux Skyforce. Reflecting on the Summer League journey, he highlighted the team’s camaraderie and collective spirit, with players putting aside individual goals for the team’s success.
Josh Christopher Named Summer League MVP
Among the standout players was Josh Christopher, a former first-round pick by the Rockets. Christopher excelled during the Summer League, culminating in a Finals MVP award with 24 points, four rebounds, and three steals in the final game.
Future Decisions for the Heat
With the Summer League concluded, the Heat face decisions about their roster. Financial constraints limit their ability to add standard contracts, leading to considerations for two-way contracts. Players like Keshad Johnson, Isaiah Stevens, Cole Swider, and Alondes Williams have made strong cases for themselves, and the Heat will look to refine their roster as training camp approaches.
The Heat aim to improve on their previous season, where they finished with a 46-36 record and were eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.
