Heat’s Ware goes from Spoelstra criticism to breakout performance in summer-league loss

Miami Heat center Kel'el Ware delivered a standout performance in a 92-72 Las Vegas NBA Summer League loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday night. Responding directly to coach Erik Spoelstra questioning his intensity and professionalism the day before, Ware scored 11 of the Heat's first 15 points, featuring dunks and a three-pointer. He maintained his high level of play, finishing the game with 21 points, nine rebounds, and three blocked shots, with his most inspired play occurring in the first half.

Heat assistant coach Eric Glass, leading the summer roster, praised Ware's effort, stating, "That’s what we’ve been waiting for from him." Glass emphasized that Ware's focus and intensity allowed the rest of his game to flourish and expressed a desire to see him replicate the performance. Ware attributed his success to simply putting in the effort and playing hard, as Spoelstra had emphasized.

This marked a significant improvement for Ware, who had previously underperformed in his first three summer league games. His effort against the Cavaliers mirrored the play that earned him a starting role late last season. Despite Ware's strong individual showing, the Heat's summer roster lost its second consecutive game (0-2), resulting in elimination from defending the Las Vegas Summer League championship they won last year.