The Miami Heat emerged as champions with a thrilling 120-118 overtime victory against the Memphis Grizzlies, securing their first Summer League championship. This electrifying final not only set a new benchmark for high-scoring games in Summer League history but also showcased the incredible talent and determination on both sides.
An Unforgettable Championship Showdown
The game reached dramatic heights with both teams deadlocked at 118 points as the clock ran out in regulation. Under Summer League overtime rules, the target score was set at 120 points, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already intense matchup. Pelle Larsson stepped up as the hero in overtime, scoring the deciding basket that etched Miami’s name into Summer League history.
"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," Larsson said, reflecting on his game-winning score.
High-Scoring History
This championship clash didn't just provide late-game heroics; it also shattered previous scoring records. The previous high-scoring final was marked by the Los Angeles Lakers' 110-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers in 2017. With a combined score well surpassing this mark, the Miami and Memphis squads delivered a game for the ages.
Standout Performances
Both teams showcased their offensive prowess throughout the game. For Miami, Josh Christopher led the charge with an impressive 24 points, supported by Kel'el Ware’s double-double of 21 points and 10 rebounds. Alondes Williams and Cole Swider also added significant contributions with 21 and 19 points, respectively. Larsson finished with 16 points, punctuated by his pivotal overtime basket.
The Grizzlies were no less formidable. Jake LaRavia led all scorers with 32 points, while Scotty Pippen Jr. was instrumental with 29 points and 11 assists. GG Jackson added 28 points, displaying the depth of Memphis' offensive arsenal.
Thrilling Regulation Finish
The closing seconds of regulation were a testament to the competitive spirit of both teams. Swider’s clutch basket with 19.6 seconds left put Miami ahead 113-110, but Memphis quickly responded. Jackson nailed a three-pointer with only 10.5 seconds remaining to tie the game. In the dying moments, Williams was called for a charge, leading to a missed three-pointer by Pippen Jr. that propelled the game into overtime.
Honoring the Best
While Miami celebrated their team triumph, individual accolades were also highlighted. Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was named the Summer League MVP, averaging 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game during the tournament. Wilson's exceptional shooting, with a 47.3% field goal percentage and 55% from beyond the arc, earned him a spot on the Summer League first team alongside GG Jackson, Scotty Pippen Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Jordan Miller.
The second team featured notable contributors such as Jalen Wilson (again, for his exceptional performances), Bub Carrington, Donovan Clingan, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Jarace Walker.
Coaching Mastery and Team Spirit
Miami’s head coach, Dan Bisaccio, praised his team’s resilience and strategic execution. "[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," Bisaccio remarked. His strategic acumen and the team's on-court chemistry were pivotal in their championship success.
This memorable Summer League championship game will be remembered for its high-stakes drama, record-breaking performances, and the emergence of new basketball talents. As Miami basks in the glory of their triumph, both teams leave a lasting impression, embodying the spirit and excitement of the sport.