Bam Adebayo scored 24 points as the Miami Heat (1-1) dominated the Memphis Grizzlies (1-1) 146-114 on Friday night. Miami built a commanding first-half lead and never trailed, winning their first game since guard Terry Rozier was placed on leave over gambling-related charges.
Nikola Jovic added 20 points, Kel’el Ware scored 19, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. recorded 17 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists in Miami’s high-scoring performance. The Heat shot 53.9% from the floor, including 47.5% from three-point range, and led 86-47 at halftime.
The game was decided early as Miami went on a 17-0 run in the first quarter, with Adebayo contributing 18 points in that stretch. The Heat’s efficient shooting and defensive pressure limited Memphis, holding them to 40.0% from the floor and 28.9% from three.
Jaren Jackson Jr. led Memphis with 19 points, while rookie Cedric Coward added 16 and Santi Aldama scored 13. Ja Morant, who had 35 points in the Grizzlies’ season opener, managed only 12 points on 4-of-16 shooting.
Miami’s offense continued clicking in the second half, keeping Memphis from mounting a comeback. The Heat made 53.9% of their field goals overall, including 19 of 40 from long range.
This win came after guard Terry Rozier was placed on leave following his arrest on gambling-related charges. Portland coach Chauncey Billups was also placed on immediate leave after the news broke Thursday.
Up next, the Heat will host the New York Knicks on Sunday in their home opener, while Memphis returns home to face the Indiana Pacers on Saturday.
