Miami Claims First Summer League Championship in Overtime Thriller
In a spectacle for the ages, Miami secured their first Summer League championship with a nail-biting 120-118 overtime victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. The game, which will be remembered for its high stakes and intense competition, marked several firsts and record-breaking moments in Summer League history.
The two teams were neck and neck throughout the game, culminating in a dramatic fourth quarter that saw Miami take the lead 113-110 with just 19.6 seconds remaining, thanks to a clutch play by Cole Swider. Not to be outdone, the Grizzlies' GG Jackson nailed a three-pointer to tie the game at 118, forcing it into overtime.
Under Summer League overtime rules, teams compete to reach a target score of 120 points. The decisive moment came when Pelle Larsson scored the game-winning basket, pushing Miami to the historic victory. Reflecting on the play, 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."
Record-Breaking Performance
This championship clash not only fulfilled Miami's dream of a title but also set a new benchmark for high-scoring finals in Summer League history. The previous record was held by the Los Angeles Lakers with a 110-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in 2017. The intense pace and high energy of the game kept fans on the edge of their seats, making it the highest-scoring contest ever witnessed in Summer League championship history.
The overtime period added another layer of excitement. This was only the second time in the Summer League championship's history that a game extended into overtime, the first being the Chicago Bulls' 84-82 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2016.
Standout Performers
Miami saw standout performances from several players. Josh Christopher led the team with 24 points, followed closely by Kel'el Ware and Alondes Williams, who each contributed 21 points. Ware also pulled down 10 rebounds, adding a crucial defensive presence. Cole Swider was another key contributor with 19 points, while Pelle Larsson finished with 16 points, capping off his night with the game-winning shot.
On the other side, the Grizzlies fought valiantly, led by Jake LaRavia who poured in an impressive 32 points. Scotty Pippen Jr. was another significant force for Memphis, adding 29 points and 11 assists. GG Jackson, whose last-second heroics tied the game in regulation, scored 28 points. Speaking about the game, Miami's coach Dan Bisaccio stated, "[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."
Accolades and Honors
While Miami celebrated their championship, individual accolades also drew attention. Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was named the Summer League MVP, having averaged 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game during the tournament. Wilson's shooting was particularly notable, achieving 47.3% from the field and an astounding 55% from beyond the arc. His stellar performance earned him a spot on the Summer League first team alongside GG Jackson, Scotty Pippen Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Jordan Miller. Other notable contributors featured on the second team included Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Jarace Walker.
A Memorable Season
The thrilling conclusion to this year’s Summer League not only showcased Miami's determination and skill but also highlighted the development and potential of future NBA stars. The electrifying game, marked by its back-and-forth intensity and record-setting moments, will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest in Summer League history.
As the dust settles, both teams can take pride in their performances, knowing they provided fans with an unforgettable experience. This championship game has set a new standard for excitement and competitiveness in the Summer League, promising an exciting future for these emerging talents.