In a nail-biting finish to Wednesday’s NBA action, Terry Rozier‘s late-game heroics propelled the Miami Heat to a thrilling 107-104 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Rozier, showcasing his clutch gene, scored nine pivotal points in the last 1:24, including a critical go-ahead 3-pointer, to secure the win for Miami.
“This is why we went after Terry,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “We wanted to have another guy who can make something happen late in games. He’s always been that kind of player in big moments with Charlotte and of course with Boston.”
Jimmy Butler led Miami’s scoring with 30 points, while Rozier, playing close to his hometown of Youngstown, Ohio, contributed significantly with 24 points. His performance was particularly poignant given the large turnout of local supporters.
“Terry put on a show, man, with half the arena there to see him tonight,” Butler said. “Basketball is supposed to be fun and him doing it somewhat at his crib, in front of his people, was something.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Terry Rozier, Miami Heat, Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
The Cavaliers, despite a strong effort led by Jarrett Allen with 25 points and 20 rebounds, could not overcome the Heat’s late surge. Cleveland’s resilience was notable, missing three key starters, yet not enough to avert a third consecutive home loss.
“All are closer, but I can’t give you any projected timetable,” said Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff regarding the return of the team’s injured starters.
Both teams faced notable absences due to injuries, with Miami’s Bam Adebayo and Duncan Robinson sitting out of the game for maintenance and discomfort issues.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Terry Rozier, Miami Heat, Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
Rozier’s impressive performance, especially from beyond the arc where he made 5 of 6 attempts, was a departure from his earlier season struggles with 3-point shooting.
“My teammates and my coaches kept reminding me who I am,” Rozier said. “They told me just to keep shooting. Knowing my guys believed in me meant a lot.”
The game also featured a contentious second quarter, where Miami extended their lead amidst a series of technical fouls called on Cleveland. Heading into halftime, Miami had a narrow lead, setting the stage for Rozier’s second-half heroics.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Terry Rozier, Miami Heat, Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
As both teams look ahead, the Heat are set to host New Orleans, while the Cavaliers face a challenge against Minnesota. Both games are scheduled for Friday night.
