MIAMI -- The Miami Heat delivered a significant blow to the Golden State Warriors, defeating them 112-86 on March 25, 2025, in a matchup that was more than just a game for Jimmy Butler. This contest marked Butler's return to Miami following his trade from the Heat to the Warriors in February, a transition accompanied by tensions with the Heat's management.
Before the game, the crowd at the Kaseya Center bore witness to a nearly 40-second tribute video showcasing Butler's highlights from his five-plus seasons with the Heat, including memorable moments from their 2020 NBA Finals run. As the video concluded, Butler was introduced, raising both arms in appreciation to the fans, who offered a mixed reception. "I got a lot of love in the city for the fanbase here," Butler stated. "The video was nice. I won’t say that there was a lot of emotions, though. I think I went into this thing level-headed. We wanted to win a game. It didn't go the way that we planned. We'll be all right."
Despite his warm welcome, the game did not go as Butler hoped. He finished with 11 points, missing five of his first six shots on the court as he sought to spark the Warriors' offense, which continued to struggle without their superstar shooter, Stephen Curry. The absence of Curry, sidelined with a pelvic contusion, was palpable, as the Warriors' lack of offensive rhythm magnified their challenges.
The Heat took full advantage of Golden State’s mistakes, jumping to an early lead and never looking back. Miami's players found their groove, particularly Bam Adebayo, who led the team with 27 points and eight rebounds. Tyler Herro also contributed significantly, scoring 20 points and dishing out seven assists. In contrast, Jonathan Kuminga was the Warriors’ top scorer with just 15 points, a reflection of the team's struggles.
Overall, the Heat's shooting was impressive, as they hit an astounding 17-of-25 from beyond the arc, translating to 68% accuracy from three-point range. This historic performance marked the 11th-highest percentage for a team that made at least 17 triples in NBA history, while the Warriors could only manage 9-of-38 from three, compounding their issues by scoring significantly fewer points from beyond the arc.
In his post-game comments, Butler reflected on his time with the Heat, expressing gratitude even amidst the circumstances surrounding his departure. He emphasized, "What I will say is I always say I'm very appreciative for the time here, the bonds that I've built here and when you look down the road, it's just a huge part of my career."
Warriors coach Steve Kerr assessed the game and credited Miami for their preparation and intensity. "I thought it was how hard they played, how well they competed. They took it to us tonight," Kerr commented about Butler's return and the game atmosphere. However, he suggested the fans' energy level was typical of Miami's relaxed vibe during a game, and he noted that his squad failed to meet the challenge posed by the Heat.
The performance by the Warriors not only marks their second consecutive loss on this road trip but also places them in a precarious position for playoff seeding as they cling to the sixth spot in the Western Conference, just a half-game ahead of the Los Angeles Clippers. Kerr is hopeful that Curry will return to action for their upcoming game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
As the game progressed, Miami retained control, expanding their lead significantly. They outscored the Warriors' starters 88-38, showcasing their depth and dominance throughout the match. By halftime, the Heat had established a commanding 57-40 lead, with Butler's former teammates finding their rhythm without him.
Adebayo's and Herro's contributions were pivotal, but the story of the night was undeniably the Heat's shooting prowess. As the game wound down, and with the outcome never in doubt, Butler could only watch as his former team celebrated a buoyant victory. “A chapter has ended,” Butler remarked after the game, while acknowledging his ready emotional state during his return and the importance of his past with Miami.
The Heat's victory improves their record to 31-41, maintaining hopes of competing in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament. While Butler expressed appreciation for his Miami days, he was also quick to recognize that his professional journey had taken a new direction that has reignited his joy in the game. Butler secured a lucrative two-year, $111 million contract extension with the Warriors, relaying that he was delighted to feel wanted again.
Ultimately, the matchup served as a significant moment not only for Butler but also for illustrating the contrasting directions both franchises are navigating at this point in the season. With the playoffs looming, both teams face challenges ahead, but for now, the Heat bask in the afterglow of a decisive victory over a former star.
