In a thrilling finale that set a new benchmark for Summer League championship games, the Miami Heat secured their first title with a pulsating 120-118 overtime win against the Memphis Grizzlies. The contest, which showcased high-octane offense and clutch plays, will be remembered as one of the most riveting in summer league history.
High-Scoring Showdown
Miami and Memphis were neck and neck throughout the matchup, locking horns with a 118-118 tie at the end of regulation. The game was so fierce that it required an overtime period to determine the winner—a rarity in Summer League finals, happening only for the second time after the Chicago Bulls' 84-82 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2016.
Setting a new standard for high-scoring affairs, this game outpaced the previous Summer League championship scoring record set by the Los Angeles Lakers in their 110-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in 2017. Under the Summer League's unique overtime rules, the teams played to reach a target score of 120 points.
Clutch Performances and Decisive Plays
The climax came as Pelle Larsson nailed the decisive basket in overtime, clinching the championship for Miami. Reflecting on the pivotal moment, Larsson praised the team’s preparation, saying, "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."
Both teams displayed remarkable tenacity. Miami's Cole Swider was instrumental in putting his team ahead, scoring a crucial basket with just 19.6 seconds left in regulation to make it 113-110. However, Memphis’ GG Jackson hit a dramatic three-pointer with 10.5 seconds remaining to force overtime. Additional drama came as Miami's Alondes Williams was called for a charge with 4.2 seconds left, and Memphis's Scotty Pippen Jr. missed a three-pointer in the final moments of regulation, sending the game into the extra period.
Stars on Both Sides
Miami’s triumph featured standout performances from multiple players. Josh Christopher led the charge with 24 points, while Kel'el Ware and Alondes Williams each contributed 21 points. Ware also added 10 rebounds to his tally. Swider and Larsson were equally effective, scoring 19 and 16 points, respectively.
On the other side, Jake LaRavia put up a game-high 32 points for the Grizzlies. Scotty Pippen Jr. and GG Jackson were also phenomenal, scoring 29 and 28 points, respectively. Pippen Jr. added 11 assists, orchestrating Memphis’ offense with skill and poise.
Recognition and Honors
Even though the Grizzlies fell short, individual excellence did not go unnoticed. Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was honored as the Summer League MVP, averaging 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game during the tournament. Wilson’s shooting prowess was on full display, as he converted 47.3% of his field goals and an impressive 55% from beyond the arc. Wilson made the Summer League first team, joining standout players like GG Jackson, Scotty Pippen Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Jordan Miller.
The second team featured other notable players, including Bub Carrington, Donovan Clingan, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Jarace Walker, all of whom made significant contributions throughout the tournament.
A Testament to Resilience
Reflecting on the intense championship game, Miami's head coach Dan Bisaccio emphasized the team’s perseverance, saying, "[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."
With this victory, Miami not only secured their first Summer League championship but also etched their names into the annals of Summer League history. The game served as a testament to strategic planning, team effort, and the unrelenting pursuit of excellence from both squads.
The high-scoring showdown and nail-biting finish will undoubtedly remain a highlight for fans and a benchmark for future Summer League contests.