Miami Claims First Summer League Championship in Thrilling Overtime Battle
In a historic contest that will be remembered for its intensity and high-scoring drama, Miami emerged victorious over the Memphis Grizzlies, clinching their first Summer League championship with a 120-118 win in overtime. This game not only set a new benchmark for Summer League finals but also showcased the relentless spirit and competitive edge of both squads.
The championship game, marked by its nail-biting finish, saw both teams tied at 118 points at the end of regulation. Under Summer League overtime rules, the game continued until one team reached 120 points, providing fans with an unforgettable climax as Pelle Larsson scored the decisive basket to secure Miami's triumph.
Miami's victory in this highest-scoring Summer League championship game underscores their offensive prowess and strategic execution. This game surpassed the previous scoring record set by the Los Angeles Lakers in their 110-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers in 2017.
Larsson, who ended the game with 16 points, reflected on the winning play, acknowledging the cohesive strategy that propelled Miami to victory. "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.
Josh Christopher led Miami’s offensive onslaught with a standout performance, scoring 24 points. He was ably supported by Kel'el Ware, who contributed 21 points and 10 rebounds, alongside Alondes Williams, who also chipped in with 21 points. Cole Swider was another key player, adding 19 points and putting Miami ahead in the closing seconds of regulation with a crucial basket, making the score 113-110.
On the Memphis side, Jake LaRavia was a formidable force, leading the game with 32 points. Scotty Pippen Jr. matched LaRavia’s energy with 29 points and 11 assists, while GG Jackson added 28 points, including a clutch three-pointer with 10.5 seconds remaining that sent the game into overtime.
In the dying seconds of regulation, Williams was called for a charge with 4.2 seconds left, and Pippen missed a three-point attempt, leading to the game's extension into overtime. This marked only the second time in Summer League history that a championship game reached overtime, the first being the Chicago Bulls' 84-82 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2016.
Reflecting on his team’s performance, Miami’s coach Dan Bisaccio expressed his admiration for their determination. "[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.
In addition to the team accolades, individual honors were also highlighted during the tournament. Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was named the Summer League MVP, averaging 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Wilson showcased impeccable shooting, with a field-goal percentage of 47.3% and an impressive 55% from beyond the arc. He earned a spot on the Summer League first team, alongside standouts GG Jackson, Scotty Pippen Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Jordan Miller.
The second team also featured significant contributors, including Jalen Wilson, Bub Carrington, Donovan Clingan, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Jarace Walker. These players, with their outstanding performances throughout the Summer League, have set the stage for promising career trajectories in the NBA.
Miami's victory in this electrifying game not only secured their first Summer League championship but also solidified their status as a formidable team brimming with talent and future potential. The thrilling encounter with the Memphis Grizzlies will undoubtedly be etched in Summer League lore as one of the most dramatic and high-scoring finals in its history.