ATLANTA (AP) — In a thrilling finish that showcased resilience and skill, the Miami Heat overcame a slow start to defeat the Atlanta Hawks 123-114 in overtime during the NBA Play-In Tournament elimination game on Friday night, April 18, 2025. This victory not only secured Miami's place in the playoffs but also marked a historic moment as they became the first No. 10 seed to advance past the Play-In Tournament since its inception.
Initially, it seemed as though Miami's backup guard Davion Mitchell would not be a key player in this crucial matchup. Struggling in the first half, Mitchell missed all four of his shots and managed only one point by halftime. By the end of regulation, he had tallied just seven points. However, the tide turned dramatically in overtime, where Mitchell emerged as a star, sinking three of four 3-point attempts to finish the game with 16 points.
“For him to struggle like that in the first half and have that kind of fourth quarter and overtime really speaks to his character,” Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said, praising Mitchell's determination and mental strength.
Tyler Herro, the Heat’s leading scorer, also played a pivotal role in the victory, contributing 30 points, including two crucial 3-pointers during the overtime period. His expected performance was crucial, but it was Mitchell's surprising emergence that stole the show. The Heat's ability to secure the win in overtime was underscored by their collective effort, outscoring the Hawks 17-8 in the extra period.
The game was a rollercoaster from the start. Miami jumped out to an early lead, scoring the first 10 points and stretching it to a 17-point advantage midway through the second quarter. However, the Hawks, led by Trae Young's 29 points and 11 assists, fought back valiantly. Young's late-game heroics included a layup that tied the game at 106, forcing the overtime period.
In overtime, Miami seized control early with an 11-2 run, showcasing their resilience and determination. Mitchell’s transformation from a struggling player to a clutch performer was remarkable. He attributed his turnaround to the unwavering support from Spoelstra and his teammates, stating, “I feel I was forcing it in the first half, trying to do too much. I just kind of re-set in my mind and let the game come to me.”
Mitchell's performance was particularly special as it unfolded in his home state of Georgia, where he was born in Hinesville. His journey from college stardom at Baylor, where he helped secure a national championship, to becoming an impactful player for the Heat is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
In addition to Herro and Mitchell, Andrew Wiggins added 20 points for Miami, while Bam Adebayo contributed 17 points and 11 rebounds. The Heat's depth and teamwork were evident as they executed their game plan effectively against a formidable Hawks team.
For the Hawks, Onyeka Okongwu was a standout performer, finishing with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while George Niang added 20 points off the bench. Despite their efforts, the Hawks were unable to maintain their momentum in overtime, ultimately ending their season.
With this victory, the Miami Heat not only secured a playoff berth but also made history as the first No. 10 seed to advance from the Play-In Tournament. They will now face the Cleveland Cavaliers, the top seed in the Eastern Conference, in the first round of the playoffs. Miami's playoff journey is a remarkable achievement, especially considering they had to win two road games to reach this point.
The Heat have now qualified for the playoffs as a play-in team three times, with a 2-1 record in the first round. As they prepare to take on the Cavaliers, the team is filled with confidence, buoyed by their recent performances and the belief that they can replicate their success from the 2023 postseason when they reached the NBA Finals.
As they look ahead to the playoffs, Miami's management has also been active off the court. According to CBS Sports reporter Saim Quinn, the Heat have maintained their unprotected picks in 2026 and 2028, while sending a lottery-protected pick to the Charlotte Hornets in 2027, which becomes unprotected in 2028 if they keep it in 2027.
The Miami Heat's victory over the Atlanta Hawks serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the NBA playoffs and the potential for underdogs to rise to the occasion. With their sights set on the Cavaliers, the Heat are ready to embrace the challenges ahead and continue their quest for championship glory.
