In a thrilling showcase of basketball excellence, Miami emerged victorious with a 120-118 win over the Memphis Grizzlies, clinching their first Summer League championship. The game, which required overtime to crown a winner, set a new benchmark for high-scoring finals in Summer League history.
The championship clash was not only the highest-scoring contest in Summer League history but also the second to extend into overtime. The previous scoring record was set by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017 with a 110-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. The first overtime thriller occurred in 2016 when the Chicago Bulls edged out the Minnesota Timberwolves with an 84-82 victory.
Overtime Drama
Both teams were deadlocked at 118 points before overtime began. Under Summer League overtime rules, the winner would be the first team to reach a target score of 120 points. Pelle Larsson scored the deciding basket in overtime, etching his name into Summer League lore.
"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 reflected after the game-winning shot.
Standout Performances
Josh Christopher led the Miami squad with a standout performance, contributing 24 points. Kel'el Ware proved to be a force on both ends of the court, adding 21 points and hauling in 10 rebounds. Alondes Williams and Cole Swider were crucial in Miami's victory, adding 21 and 19 points respectively. Larsson, the hero of the overtime period, finished the game with 16 points.
On the opposing side, Jake LaRavia was a scoring machine for the Grizzlies, pouring in 32 points. Scotty Pippen Jr. was equally impressive, scoring 29 points and dishing out 11 assists. GG Jackson also had a stellar outing, contributing 28 points in a losing effort.
End of Regulation Excitement
The closing moments of regulation were nothing short of thrilling. Swider put Miami in the lead with 19.6 seconds left, making the score 113-110. However, Jackson tied the game with a clutch three-pointer with 10.5 seconds remaining. With just 4.2 seconds to go, Williams was called for a charge, giving the Grizzlies a chance to win in regulation. Pippen Jr. had the final shot but missed a three-pointer, sending the electrifying game into overtime.
A New Champion Crowned
Miami's victory was a testament to their resilience and competitive spirit. Coach Dan Bisaccio praised his team's grit and determination, saying, "[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."
Award-Winning Performances
In individual accolades, Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was honored as the Summer League MVP. Wilson averaged 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game during the tournament. His impressive shooting stats—47.3% from the field 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 Wilson, Bub Carrington, Donovan Clingan, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Jarace Walker.
The unforgettable game not only showcased individual talent but also underscored the importance of teamwork and strategic play. Miami’s blend of experience, youth, and resolve made all the difference, crowning them as the new Summer League champions in a game that will be remembered for years to come.