Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra praised the team’s progress during the preseason and singled out new addition Jahmir Young for his impact. Spoelstra highlighted Young’s speed, scoring, and playmaking ability as standout traits.
“He’s got a good way about him. He’s an experienced player. That speed and quickness with the ball, his ability to get in the paint, knock down threes, is unique,” Spoelstra said after practice.
The coach also emphasized the development of players on two-way contracts. “They just have to continue to stack those days day after day. It’s a tough decision process, but that’s the life of players trying to make it and get a guaranteed contract,” he explained.
Spoelstra reflected on the team’s defensive progress during training camp. “It’s good and bad. We have to develop more habits and commit to doing tough things. There’s no scheme that can make it easier,” he said, stressing the importance of consistency.
Sophomore Keshadn Johnson also earned recognition from the head coach for his growth. “He’s an older player with winning qualities from college. He’s improving as a versatile defender, and his three-point shooting has improved. All of it will come with continued development,” Spoelstra noted.
Young joins the Heat on a two-way contract after impressing in the G League with Grand Rapids Gold and Windy City Bulls. Last season, he averaged 21.7 points, 7.0 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.9 steals over 43 games, shooting 45.7% from the field and 86.1% from the free-throw line.
The guard went undrafted in 2024 but earned NBA experience with the Chicago Bulls on a two-way deal, making his debut in March 2025. Miami signed him in August 2025, initially on an Exhibit 10 deal before converting it to a two-way contract.
Spoelstra noted that Young’s preseason contributions show his readiness to compete at the NBA level. “In practice when we had him in that third unit, rolling against him, he was a tech guy,” the coach said, referring to Young’s ability to create plays and challenge defenders.
The Heat finished the preseason 0–6, with strong individual performances from Kel’el Ware, Bam Adebayo, and Norman Powell. The regular season opens on October 22 at Orlando, with Spoelstra emphasizing continued growth and preparation.
