Jimmy Butler had a standout performance, scoring a season-high 32 points, while Bam Adebayo contributed 21 points and 11 rebounds, leading the Miami Heat to a 111-105 victory over the short-handed Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday night and maintaining their undefeated record in NBA In-Season Tournament play.
Duncan Robinson chipped in with 18 points for the Heat, who extended their win streak to six games and finished a successful 4-0 road trip, securing wins against San Antonio, Atlanta, and Memphis. Miami, which struggled with a 1-4 start this season, has shown remarkable improvement, averaging 113.8 points per game during this winning streak.
Butler attributed the turnaround to increased scoring, humorously noting, “[My teammates] actually believe I”m a 50% 3-point shooter.” He revealed his ambitious goal for three-point shooting this season.
Miami now stands at 2-0 in group play, while the Hornets are 1-1. Despite the absence of key players due to injuries, including Gordon Hayward, Terry Rozier, Brandon Miller, and Cody Martin, the Hornets started strong, gaining a 32-24 lead in the first quarter with P.J. Washington”s impressive 3-point shooting.
Miami seized control in the second quarter, taking a 57-48 lead at halftime, courtesy of Butler”s buzzer-beater from halfcourt. The Heat showcased their ability to find solutions through Butler and Adebayo, either scoring themselves or setting up teammates.
Charlotte made a late rally, cutting the deficit to 95-90 in the fourth quarter, but Butler”s clutch plays, including a key fallaway jumper, secured the win for the Heat. Jaime Jaquez Jr. played a pivotal role off the bench for Miami, contributing 17 points and five rebounds in 32 minutes. He expressed added motivation from teammates to perform well in the tournament, emphasizing the $500,000 prize at stake.
The Hornets, missing six players due to injuries, struggled with reserves in starting roles. Coach Steve Clifford criticized the team”s lack of synchronization with seldom-used players on the court, deeming it unacceptable.
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