In a nail-biting finale that showcased the true essence of competitive spirit, Miami clinched their first Summer League championship with a dramatic 120-118 overtime victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. This game not only etched its name into the history books as the highest-scoring Summer League final but also set a new benchmark for thrilling finishes.
Historic High-Scoring Showdown
The clash between Miami and Memphis was a high-octane affair, breaking the previous Summer League finals scoring record set by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017. Back then, the Lakers had secured a 110-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Fast forward to this championship, and both teams pushed the envelope, culminating in a new high-scoring zenith for future generations to admire.
The game was tied at 118 points as regulation concluded, necessitating overtime to decide the champion. Under the Summer League overtime rules, each team competed to reach a target score of 120 points. Pelle Larsson emerged as Miami's hero, scoring the decisive basket in overtime to seal the 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, reflecting on his crucial contribution.
Key Performances and Crucial Moments
Josh Christopher spearheaded Miami’s offense with a stellar 24-point performance, supported by Kel'el Ware, who delivered a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Alondes Williams matched Ware's scoring tally with 21 points, while Cole Swider added 19 points and Pelle Larsson finished with 16 points.
Swider had his moment of glory when he put Miami ahead within the dying seconds of regulation, making it 113-110. However, GG Jackson of the Grizzlies nailed a clutch three-pointer with 10.5 seconds left, tying the game. Moments later, Williams was called for a charge with just 4.2 seconds remaining, giving the Grizzlies one final chance. Unfortunately for Memphis, Scotty Pippen Jr. missed a potential game-winning three-pointer, sending the matchup into overtime.
For Memphis, Jake LaRavia topped the scoresheet with a remarkable 32-point game. Pippen Jr. impressed with a double-double, posting 29 points along with 11 assists, while Jackson contributed a commendable 28 points.
Reflecting on the intense competition, Miami's coach Dan Bisaccio praised his squad, stating, "[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."
Accolades and MVP Honors
Though Miami basked in the glory of their championship victory, Brooklyn Nets forward Jalen Wilson was recognized as the Summer League MVP. Wilson demonstrated outstanding consistency throughout the tournament, averaging 21.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency was notable, converting 47.3% of his field goals and 55% of his three-pointers. This exemplary performance earned Wilson a place on the Summer League first team, alongside GG Jackson, Scotty Pippen Jr., Kel'el Ware, and Jordan Miller.
The second team featured significant contributors as well, including Jalen Wilson, Bub Carrington, Donovan Clingan, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Jarace Walker. These players collectively contributed to making this Summer League one of the most memorable in recent history.
A Summer League for the Ages
This championship game marked only the second time in Summer League history that a final extended into overtime. The first, a closely contested battle, saw the Chicago Bulls narrowly edge out the Minnesota Timberwolves with an 84-82 victory in 2016. The 2023 edition, however, raised the bar not only in terms of scoring but also in drama and excitement.
As the final buzzer sounded, Miami's players erupted in jubilant celebration, their efforts rewarded with a hard-earned title. For fans and participants alike, this game will be remembered as an extraordinary showcase of skill, determination, and sportsmanship – the heart and soul of the Summer League.