Heat Dominate Spurs as Rookie Kel’el Ware Shines in 128-107 Victory

MIAMI, Fla. — The Miami Heat overcame a slow start to dominate the San Antonio Spurs 128-107 on Sunday, fueled by a standout performance from rookie Kel'el Ware and a strong showing from their bench. The Heat outscored the Spurs 46-27 in the third quarter to secure the win at the Kaseya Center.

Ware, playing 34 minutes off the bench, delivered a career-high 25 points, eight rebounds, and finished with a +27 plus-minus rating. Terry Rozier added 20 points, including 4-of-5 from beyond the arc, while Duncan Robinson contributed 21 points on 8-of-12 shooting. The Heat’s bench combined for 70 points, showcasing their depth in the absence of key starters.

“Kel’el was phenomenal tonight,” Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra said. “He brought energy, rebounding, and scoring when we needed it most. Our bench stepped up in a big way.”

For the Spurs, rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama recorded 21 points and 10 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Miami’s offensive surge. The Spurs struggled with turnovers and shot just 42% from the field, while the Heat capitalized on fast-break opportunities and three-point shooting.

The Heat improved to 24-16 on the season, maintaining their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Meanwhile, the Spurs fell to 10-30, continuing their struggles in a rebuilding year.

In other NBA action, the Philadelphia 76ers faced the Milwaukee Bucks without star center Joel Embiid, who is sidelined with knee swelling. The Bucks, riding a three-game win streak, were heavy favorites heading into the matchup. The Sacramento Kings, now 8-2 under interim head coach Jordi Fernandez, hosted the struggling Washington Wizards, while the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers renewed their rivalry at the Intuit Dome.

As the NBA season approaches its midpoint, teams are jockeying for playoff positioning, with injuries and roster depth playing critical roles in determining success.