Miami Heat Clinch First Summer League Championship in Overtime Thriller
In an electrifying finale, the Miami Heat secured their first-ever Summer League championship with a nail-biting 120-118 overtime victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. The game, held on a balmy evening, will be remembered for its record-setting scoring and clutch performances on both sides.
The Heat and the Grizzlies treated fans to an unforgettable contest, with both teams deadlocked at 118 points as the final buzzer of regulation sounded. Under the Summer League's unique overtime rules, teams competed to reach a target score of 120 points. It was Pelle Larsson who ultimately etched his name in Summer League history, scoring the decisive basket to clinch the championship for Miami.
The game was an offensive showcase that set a new standard for high-scoring finals in Summer League history. The previous record, set by the Los Angeles Lakers' 110-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in 2017, was shattered as both teams exceeded 110 points. This championship encounter also marked only the second time in Summer League history that the final went into overtime, the first being the Chicago Bulls’ 84-82 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2016.
Leading Miami's offensive charge was Josh Christopher, who tallied 24 points in a performance that exemplified resilience and efficiency. Complementing his efforts were significant contributions from Kel’el Ware, who notched a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds, and Alondes Williams, who also added 21 points. Cole Swider chipped in 19 points, while the hero of the night, Pelle Larsson, finished with 16 points.
On the Grizzlies' side, Jake LaRavia was a standout, pouring in 32 points in a valiant effort to lift his team. Scotty Pippen Jr. came up just short of a victory but showcased his all-around talent with 29 points and 11 assists. GG Jackson also made a significant impact, contributing 28 points, including a clutch three-pointer that tied the game at 113-113 with just 10.5 seconds left in regulation.
The closing moments of regulation were a whirlwind. With Miami leading 113-110 following a Swider basket, Jackson's timely three-pointer sent the game into overtime. A subsequent charge called on Williams with 4.2 seconds left in regulation, and a missed potential game-winner by Pippen, ensured that fans were treated to extra minutes of high-stakes basketball.
Reflecting on the thrilling victory, Pelle 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." The strategy and execution in those critical moments highlighted the Heat's preparation and Larsson’s poise under pressure.
Head Coach Dan Bisaccio praised his team's resilience, stating, "[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."
Adding to the night's accolades, Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was named the Summer League MVP, having averaged 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game throughout the tournament. Wilson's shooting prowess, with percentages of 47.3% from the field and 55% from beyond the arc, earned him a well-deserved spot on the Summer League first team, alongside GG Jackson, Scotty Pippen Jr., Kel’el Ware, and Jordan Miller.
Miami's triumph in this high-octane finale not only secured their first Summer League championship but also set a high bar for future tournaments. The game exemplified the competitive spirit and emerging talent that the Summer League aims to showcase, promising plenty of excitement for fans and promising young athletes alike.