Heat Outlast Spurs in Defensive California Classic Battle
SAN FRANCISCO — The Miami Heat opened their California Classic Summer League campaign with a gritty 82-69 victory over the San Antonio Spurs at Chase Center on Saturday, using a dominant fourth quarter to pull away in what had been a back-and-forth affair.
Game Breakdown
The contest featured 16 lead changes and four ties through three quarters, with neither team building more than a six-point advantage until Miami’s closing surge. The Heat seized control with a 26-18 fourth-quarter advantage, maintaining their lead for the final 15 minutes of play.
Defense proved decisive as Miami:
- Forced 17 Spurs turnovers (committing just 10)
- Recorded 9 blocks to San Antonio’s 4
- Held San Antonio to 33% shooting from the field
Standout Performances
For Miami:
- Rookie Pelle Larsson impressed with a team-high 18 points
- Erik Stevenson provided spark off the bench with 16 points, 5 rebounds
- First-round pick Kel’el Ware stuffed the stat sheet (14 pts, 7 reb, 3 blk)
For San Antonio:
- David Jones Garcia carried the offense with 18 points, 7 rebounds
- The remaining Spurs starters combined for just 10 points on 4-20 shooting
- Jameer Nelson Jr. led reserves with 13 points, 5 assists
Shooting Struggles
Both teams battled offensive inconsistency:
- Miami: 37% FG, 21% 3PT (5-24)
- San Antonio: 33% FG, 19% 3PT (4-21)
The Heat’s 80% free throw shooting (16-20) provided crucial separation
Up Next
The tournament continues Sunday with:
- Miami vs. Los Angeles Lakers (5:30 PM PT)
- San Antonio vs. Golden State Warriors (8:00 PM PT)
The California Classic serves as an important evaluation period for both franchises, with Miami looking to build on this defensive effort while San Antonio seeks improved offensive execution from its young core.