Miami Heat Triumph Over Atlanta Hawks in Overtime Thriller to Secure Playoff Spot
In a game that will be remembered for its intensity and drama, the Miami Heat managed to outlast the Atlanta Hawks in a nail-biting overtime victory, winning 123-114. This victory not only secured their spot in the playoffs but also etched their name in the history books of the NBA Play-In Tournament.
Leading the charge for the Heat was Tyler Herro, who delivered a stellar performance with 30 points, including two crucial 3-pointers in overtime. The Heat, who had initially lost their early lead, showed resilience and determination to come back stronger and seal the win on Friday night.
With this victory, Miami is set to face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday night in the opening game of the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Heat’s journey to the playoffs has been nothing short of remarkable, as they became the first No. 10 seed in either conference to make the playoffs since the current play-in format was introduced in the 2020-21 season. Additionally, they are the first play-in team to advance with two road wins.
Another standout performance came from Davion Mitchell, who, despite scoring only 7 points in regulation, came alive in overtime with three 3-pointers, matching his career high for any quarter. Herro and Mitchell were instrumental in the Heat’s success, scoring or assisting on 31 points in the fourth quarter and overtime.
On the other side, the Hawks were led by Trae Young, who put up a valiant effort with 29 points and 11 assists. Young’s lay-in with 1.3 seconds remaining in regulation tied the game at 106, forcing the overtime. Onyeka Okongwu also had a strong performance with 28 points and 12 rebounds.
The game started with Miami taking an early lead, scoring the first 10 points and extending their advantage to 17 points at 45-28 in the second period. However, the Hawks fought back, tying the game at 88 with a layup by Terance Mann. Young’s 3-pointer then gave Atlanta its first lead at 91-88 with 7:36 remaining.
Atlanta managed to hold a slim lead at 93-92 before Okongwu hit a 3-pointer. Following a steal by Dyson Daniels, Okongwu’s jam extended the lead to 98-92. Despite these efforts, the Heat’s resilience and strategic plays in overtime secured their victory.
Notably, Heat forward Nikola Jovic, who had been out since February 23 with a broken right hand, was available but did not play. Guard Pelle Larsson (ankle) was also available for the first time since April 7.
After a disappointing performance against the Orlando Magic in the first play-in game, where they set season lows with four 3-pointers made and 21 attempted, Hawks coach Quin Snyder emphasized the need for his players to be more willing to take contested 3s. The Hawks responded by attempting 21 3s in just the first half against Miami, making five. For the game, Atlanta made 16 of 47 3s.
The Heat’s playoff appearance marks their sixth straight season in the playoffs, tying for the longest streak in franchise history. This victory also marked their fourth play-in win all-time, breaking a tie with the Hawks, Pelicans, and Lakers for the most since the tournament was introduced.
- Tyler Herro: 30 points, 2 crucial 3-pointers in OT
- Davion Mitchell: 3 3-pointers in OT, matching career high
- Trae Young: 29 points, 11 assists
- Onyeka Okongwu: 28 points, 12 rebounds
As the Heat prepare to face the Cavaliers, fans are eagerly anticipating another thrilling performance from this resilient team.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
