With arguably the franchise's greatest player ever, Dwyane Wade, back in the roster, there's no question that the Miami Heat and its fan base are pumped up.
As such was evident on Wade's return Friday night against the visiting Milwaukee Bucks. The crowd was excited throughout the game and emotions were on a high, so defensive-minded rookie Bam Adebayo had no trouble feeding off on all the energy.
BAM šš½ pic.twitter.com/pA9nX4h99C
ā Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 10, 2018
Wearing their special Miami Vice jerseys, the Heat busted through the Bucks in the second half. They outscored the visitors in the third quarter, 30-8, and it paved the way for a cruising final frame.
It was in the fourth period where Adebayo's impressive display happened. The Heat were up by 12 with only 5:04 remaining, so opposing swingman Khris Middleton pushed the pace off a rebound and drove to the basket for an attempt at a close-ranged jumper. Bam Adebayo, who played the transition defense well, met Middleton in the paint and was able to reject the high-arching shot. Note that it wasn't swatted; the ball was literally snagged while in mid-air and brought back down for a possession. It was as if such a block was among his usual plays, as āBamā nonchalantly dribbled the ball to their side of the court.
The promising rookie also produced nicely in other areas. Along with a pair of blocks, he contributed 15 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists.
The Heat won, 91-85, to snap a five-game losing streak. Things could get back on track in the coming weeks; they should be a more inspired team moving forward thanks to the recent acquisition.
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