Bam Adebayo gets the help he needs
Submitted Mark Stallworth, Miami Times Contributor
(Source The Miami Times):
The Miami Heat selected center Kel’el Ware from the University of Indiana with their 15th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
“The journey of one thousand miles starts with the first step,” said Miami Heat President Pat Riley at the introductory press conference for Ware. “We are very fortunate to get the specific player that we wanted to complement Bam [Adebayo].”
This selection addresses the desperate need to support forward Adebayo in the frontcourt.
In recent years, many thought the team was slacking to attract the right “whale free agent,” but the Heat has a rich history of making strategic moves that bolster their roster and keep them competitive. The recent decision to draft Ware is no exception and shows that the team is beginning to focus more on addressing their need for depth and size in the frontcourt.
This addition will help the team when it is time to face the NBA champion Boston Celtics, the retooled New York Knicks, and the Philadelphia 76ers this upcoming season.
A Perfect Fit
Ware is a standout center who brings a unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill to the Heat. Receiving his NBA foundation from his college coach Mike Woodson, Ware is in a great position.
“He’s got to get a little more weight on him, I think, for the NBA and the day-to-day grind that they have,” said Woodson. “His skill set is there. He can make threes, but he’s got to get better and consistent with doing that. I think the sky is the limit. The way Spo [Erik Spoelstra] coaches and how he pushes guys to play at a high level, that’s what he needs. He couldn’t have picked a better organization than Miami.”
Standing at 7 feet tall with a wingspan of 7’4,” Ware’s physical attributes alone make him an imposing presence.
“I’m glad to be at an organization that loves to compete and play hard, and they will push me to be the best player,” said Ware.
However, it’s his versatility on both ends of the court that sets him apart.
Offensively, Ware is a dynamic player capable of scoring in a variety of ways. His ability to finish at the rim, combined with a developing mid-range jumper, makes him a threat in pick-and-roll situations and as a lob target.
His presence will provide an additional scoring option, easing the offensive burden on Adebayo and opening the floor for Miami’s sharpshooters.
Defensively, Ware’s shot-blocking ability and defensive instincts make him a natural rim protector. This will significantly enhance Miami’s interior defense, allowing Adebayo to switch more freely on the perimeter, where he excels.
Ware’s potential to guard multiple positions also fits well with Miami’s defensive schemes, which often rely on versatility and switch ability.
Once Ware is in “Heat Shape,” it will be a scary sight for opposing teams. The Heat have a proven track record of maximizing the potential of young players, and Ware’s work ethic and coachability make him an ideal candidate for further development.
Under the guidance of Spoelstra and the Heat’s coaching staff, Ware can refine his skills and gradually take on a more significant role within the team.
Pairing Ware with Adebayo has the potential to create one of the most formidable frontcourt duos in the NBA. Adebayo, known for his exceptional defense, playmaking, and ability to guard multiple positions, will benefit immensely from Ware’s presence. With Ware handling more of the interior defensive duties, Adebayo can leverage his athleticism and versatility to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
Offensively, the duo’s complementary skillsets will present constant mismatches for opponents. Adebayo’s playmaking from the high post, combined with Ware’s ability to finish around the rim, will create a dynamic inside-out game that can be difficult to defend.
Upcoming Schedule
Fans will be able to get an early look at the new Heat rookie during the California Classic and the Vegas Summer League.
The Miami Heat California Classic schedule starts with a matchup against the Golden State Warriors on July 6/6:30 p.m. ET/ESPN, followed by the Sacramento Kings on July 7/4:30 p.m. ET /NBATV) and finishing off against the Los Angeles Lakers on July 10/7 p.m. ET /ESPN2.
The Miami Heat Vegas Summer schedule starts with a matchup against the Boston Celtics on July 13/6:30 p.m. ET/NBATV), then against the Oklahoma City Thunder on July 15/6 p.m. ET /ESPNU. The Heat play the Dallas Mavericks on July 17/3 p.m. ET/ESPN2, followed by the Toronto Raptors on July 19/9 p.m. ET /ESPN+.
Kaseya Center Backstage Tours
The Kaseya Center is offering fans the opportunity to embark on a guided behind-the-scenes tour of Miami’s premier sports and entertainment venue and home of the 3-time NBA Champion Miami Heat.
The tour includes stops at VIP locations including the team locker room and training facilities, arena suites and lounges, media control room, and more.
Fans who purchase tickets will also receive a 10% discount at the Miami Heat Store.
Adult tickets are $39.99, tickets for ages 2-17 years old are $34.99 and kids under 2 are free.
Tours are ongoing now and will be offered on select dates through September 27. For more information, visit www.KaseyaCenter.com/AllAccessTours .