The Miami Heat snapped a frustrating five-game losing streak with a gritty 106-95 victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Thursday night. Norman Powell led the charge with 24 points, including a half-court floater at the halftime buzzer that energized the team and helped build momentum for the Heat to play a strong second half. Kel’el Ware dominated the paint, posting 22 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocks in a performance that showcased his growing two-way impact. The win improves Miami to 15-12 on the season, while Brooklyn drops to 7-19.
Powell was efficient, going 8-for-14 the field. He knocked down 3-for-5 from the three-point line. He hit 5-for-6 from the free throw line. His buzzer-beater, a 47-foot one-armed prayer, capped a strong first half where the Heat outscored the Nets 54-49.
Kel’el Ware was reinserted into the Heat’s starting lineup. He took advantage of his opportunity scoring 22 points on 8-for-11 shooting. He knocked down a three-pointer going from 1-for-2 from the three-point line. He also grabbed 12 rebounds and blocked four shots. Ware was EVERYWHERE. His defensive presence was pivotal to the Heat’s 106-95 victory.
The Heat’s defense clamped down in the second half, holding the Nets to just 45 points while forcing turnovers and contested looks. Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton provided highlights with powerful dunks, but it wasn’t enough against Miami’s balanced attack.
More Heat Contributions
• Andrew Wiggins scored 10 points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out two assists.
• Davion Mitchell scored 10 points and dished out seven assists.
• Jaime Jaquez Jr. scored 19 points, grabbed five rebounds, and dished out an assist off the bench.
• Bam Adebayo scored 8 points, grabbed 17 rebounds, and dished out an assist.
The Heat head to Boston to face the Celtics on Friday, 12/19. Tip-off from TD Garden is at 7:00 p.m.
