The Miami Heat and Memphis Grizzlies have officially punched their tickets to the NBA Playoffs after clutch performances in their respective play-in games.
Herro Ignites Heat as They Make NBA History
Tyler Herro dropped a scorching 30 points, including two clutch 3-pointers in overtime, to power the Heat past the Atlanta Hawks in a 123-114 thriller. With the win, Miami becomes the first-ever No. 10 seed to reach the playoffs since the play-in format was introduced in 2020–21.
The Heat now set their sights on a first-round matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers beginning Sunday night.
Though Trae Young (29 pts, 11 ast) and Onyeka Okongwu (28 pts, 12 reb) fought hard for Atlanta, it was Davion Mitchell’s surprising burst three triples in overtime that helped the Heat pull away for good.
Grizzlies Tame Mavericks to Book Date with OKC
Despite battling an ankle strain, Ja Morant stepped up with 22 points and 9 assists to guide the Grizzlies to a 120-106 win over the Dallas Mavericks.
Jaren Jackson Jr. added 24 points and Desmond Bane chipped in 22, as Memphis locked down the 8th seed in the West, setting up a high-stakes showdown against top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round.
Anthony Davis led the Mavericks with a valiant 40 points and 9 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to keep Dallas alive in the postseason hunt.
What’s Next?
- Miami Heat vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (Game 1: Sunday, Eastern Conference)
- Memphis Grizzlies vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (Game 1: Sunday, Western Conference)
Both Miami and Memphis showcased championship-caliber grit and resilience, turning tough play-in paths into golden playoff opportunities.
