In a thrilling showdown that will be remembered in NBA history, the Miami Heat overcame the Atlanta Hawks 123-114 in overtime on Friday night, April 18, 2025, to secure their place in the playoffs as the Eastern Conference's No. 8 seed. This victory marks a significant milestone, as Miami became the first 10th seed in NBA history to advance from the Play-In tournament to the playoffs since the format was introduced in the 2020-21 season.
Leading the charge for the Heat was Tyler Herro, who delivered a stellar performance with 30 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. The first-time All-Star showcased his skills, sinking two crucial three-pointers during the overtime period. Meanwhile, Davion Mitchell, who was acquired from the Toronto Raptors in a trade that sent Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors, stepped up as the hero in the extra frame. He scored nine of his total 16 points in overtime, including a game-sealing three-pointer with just 23.9 seconds left on the clock.
The Heat began the game with a bang, racing out to a 10-0 lead and later extending their advantage to 17 points at 45-28 in the second quarter. However, the Hawks rallied back, with Trae Young’s layup tying the game at 106 with only 1.3 seconds remaining in regulation, forcing the overtime period. Young finished the night with 29 points and 11 assists, while Onyeka Okongwu added a strong performance with 28 points and 12 rebounds.
Miami's victory is particularly significant given their struggles this season. The Heat entered this game with an unfortunate record of leading the NBA with 21 blown fourth-quarter leads. However, the team managed to hold on this time, flipping the script on their usual late-game woes.
Throughout the game, the Heat's defense was put to the test, especially in the second half as the Hawks began to find their rhythm. After trailing for much of the game, Atlanta tied the score for the first time at 88 with a layup by Terance Mann. Young's three-pointer gave the Hawks their first lead at 91-88, but Miami refused to back down.
In the overtime period, it was Mitchell who took charge, making a critical contribution to the Heat's offensive effort. He displayed poise and precision, hitting three three-pointers in the extra frame and helping Miami to secure the win. His performance was a testament to the depth of the Heat's roster, showcasing their potential as they head into the playoffs.
"We knew we had to dig deep, and we did just that," Mitchell said after the game. "This win means a lot for us, and we’re ready to take on Cleveland next."
As the Heat prepare to face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs, starting Sunday, April 20, 2025, they will look to build on this momentum. The Cavaliers, who finished the regular season as the top seed, will present a formidable challenge. Miami will need to harness the energy and determination they displayed against Atlanta to compete at a high level.
The matchup promises to be an exciting one, as both teams will be eager to establish their dominance early in the series. The Heat will rely on the leadership of Herro and the defensive prowess of Bam Adebayo, who contributed 17 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, and five blocks in the win against Atlanta.
In addition to the standout performances from Herro and Mitchell, the Heat's ability to maintain composure in pressure situations will be crucial as they move forward. The team has demonstrated resilience throughout the season, and their ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes moments will be tested against the Cavaliers.
Meanwhile, the Hawks will be left to ponder their missed opportunities. Despite a valiant effort, they were unable to capitalize on their late-game surge. Coach Quin Snyder emphasized the need for improvement in their late-game execution, stating, "We have to learn from this experience and come back stronger next season. Our players need to be more willing to take contested shots when it matters."
As the NBA playoffs get underway, all eyes will be on the Heat as they aim to make a deep run, defying expectations as the underdog. Their historic win against Atlanta has set the stage for what could be a thrilling playoff journey. Fans are eagerly anticipating how Miami will fare against the Cavaliers, and whether they can continue to write their own story of resilience and triumph in the postseason.
With the stakes higher than ever, the Heat's journey is just beginning. Will they continue to defy the odds and make history in the playoffs? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Miami Heat are ready to make their mark.
