Mateo’s Hoop Diary: A’ja Wilson should have the lead for the MVP crown

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Napheesa Collier returned from her seven-game absence (ankle), dicing coverages with jumpers and runners, reminding everyone that she was the MVP front-runner before her injury in the Minnesota Lynx’s win over the visiting Indiana Fever on Sunday. She racked up 32 points on 68.8% shooting, with nine rebounds plus two offerings and sat down as fewer than two minutes remained. 

 

The Lynx improved to 30-7, six games ahead of the Atlanta Dream, which has the second-best record in the league (24-13). Now with their best player back, the war path resumes for the WNBA championship at full speed.

 

Yet, A’ja Wilson should be in the lead for the MVP crown. The Aces were in the middle of an abysmal season because the team isn’t as strong as the ones of the past few years. They’ve since gone on a 10-game winning streak, leaping to the third seed of 13 teams. Coach Becky Hammon has sent Jewell Loyd to the bench and put Kiersten Bell in the starting lineup, but the biggest difference is that Wilson elevated her play.

 

Wilson is averaging 27 points on 50.3% shooting, with 12.8 rebounds and 2.5 dimes over the 10 straight wins. She’s playing at last year’s record-setting level and if she keeps up her scoring, is going to come close to another 1,000-point season. On top of that, she’s missed six fewer games, and her production is comparable to Collier’s. 

 

 Consider this: The Lynx went 5-2 without Collier because they are stacked at every position. Remove Wilson from the Aces’ lineup for seven straight games, and they probably lose all of them as they are 1-3 without her this season. 

 

Collier is ahead of Wilson in accuracy, logging a 58.5 effective field goal percentage to the latter’s 50.7 EFG%. Yet, Wilson’s team is not as deep, and opponents have more opportunities to load up on her. Furthermore, Wilson scores with less help inside the arc, as those shots are assisted 67.8% of the time, and Collier’s are 80.3%. All of Wilson’s triples are assisted, but she takes 1.4 nightly, making 0.4. Collier attempts 3.6, nailing 1.4 and 97.3% of those are helped.

 

Jonquel Jones won MVP in 2021, missing five games, the most by a winner. Yet that was when the season was shorter at 32 games, and she still logged 84.4% of them. Collier has missed 10 this season, and if she doesn’t miss any more, she’ll have recorded 77.3% of the matches. 

 

Wilson is a two-way force who creates overreactions easily. She is first in second chance points (3.9), tied for first with Collier in points off turnovers (4.4) and second in paint points behind Dearica Hamby (12.2). It might be enough to win her fourth MVP trophy in six seasons.

 

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: “I ended up getting pushed through the door to coach Showtime”: Pat Riley’s statue unveiling date announced and notes on the WNBA Rookie of the Year race

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Pat Riley will have his statue unveiled at Star Plaza by the Lakers when they host the Celtics on Feb. 22, per a team press release. He is still second in regular season wins (533) and second in winning percentage (.733), never having below a 50-win campaign as the head. Additionally, he is also second in playoff wins (102) and first in playoff winning percentage (68.5).

 

That’s a thick résumé for the guy who was denied entry by security into the press lounge before accepting a job as co-broadcaster to Chick Hearn. He eventually found himself as an assistant after Jack McKinney’s bicycle accident and two seasons later, was the head coach after Magic Johnson got Paul Westhead fired.

 

“I ended up getting pushed through the door to coach Showtime,” Riley said on an appearance on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Skyhook podcast in September 2022. He was also self-deprecating, saying the greatest talented team in the NBA carried him until he learned how to coach.

 

Hall-of-Famer Michael Cooper told Five Reasons Sports Network two years ago for a story on Riley’s career that he was a master motivator who instantly changed the intensity of practices when he took over. Sometimes he would resort to his “temporary insanity” methods to keep players disciplined and grounded, but he knew the right time to lay off and was sharp with the Xs and Os. It also helped that he was willing to accept difficult personalities, even admitting in his book, Show Time, that “A few sinners mixed in with a few saints can be a powerful brew.”

 

                                                    (Game 6 in Philadelphia, 1980)

Riley was the coach for the 1982 championship over the 76ers, then helped the Lakers get revenge on the Celtics in 1985 for the previous year and the other seven times they were finished off. He was also the coach when they became the first team since the Celtics (1968, 1969) to repeat as champions in 1987 and 1988. He guaranteed that at the parade after taking down the Celtics while James Worthy was hungover.

 

Other players were also angry, but he didn’t care. He wanted them to own their greatness.  The ride lasted two more years, but there were four rings as the head and one as an assistant, plus one Coach of the Year selection (1990) at its end. His impact plus style, which he stole from his father, made him an icon. It’s impossible to measure how much not accepting the role in Tequila Sunrise (19880 has affected his legacy, but he’s probably content.

 

While telling the story of the ‘87 title in Show Time, Riley was unreserved, explaining how he lived on parasitic value. He shared the story of when Jerry West said he was going to retire, and when he wondered if he could ever be as successful without Johnson, who was walking off into the distance on a Bahamian beach. It’s incredible to look through considering what he accomplished after his Lakers chapter.

WNBA Rookie of the Year race:

 

The Rookie of the Year race should be over while the WNBA season is almost three-quarters complete. It’s been an excellent class of youngsters, but the number one pick, Paige Bueckers, separated herself from her peers.

 

Keep in mind that Sonia Citron is another top-shelf guard and now the best player on the Washington Mystics after Brittney Sykes was traded to Seattle. Yet Bueckers is an advanced weapon, setting records like being the fastest rookie to log 450 digits and 100 offerings, and has been the best player all season on the Dallas Wings (9-24) while occasionally dealing with knee soreness.

 

Aside from leading all rookies in scoring, Bueckers receives less help than the only ones averaging double-figure scoring (Citron- 14.8; Kiki Iriafen- 12.5; Janelle Salaün- 10.4). On top of that, Bueckers faces more pressure from opponents on the dribble and is the best shot creator for others in this group; her assist-to-turnover ratio (2.6) is higher than Citron (1.3), Iriafen (0.8), and Salaün 0.86).

 

Can Bam Adebayo Be an All-NBA Player in Year 9?

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It is no question that Bam Adebayo is one of the NBA’s best defensive players, if not the best. He can guard all positions one-five on the interior and exterior of the court and has done so in the biggest moments. This past season Bam Adebayo was snubbed, left off an NBA All-Defensive team for the first time this decade, but the question I dive into today. Is how does Bam Adebayo become an All-NBA player, not just making the All-Defensive team.

Bam Adebayo is a max player, and a worthy one. Many of his statistics won’t show up in the box score and he has helped carry an immense load for a Heat team that has numerous holes defensively. But for Bam to get recognition around the league, where does he need to improve, what does he need to prove, and what is he already doing that isn’t viewed as importantly as it should be.

Now why do I ask the question? Well, Jeff Teague had some strong things to say about Bam Adebayo

“Bam been sliding under the radar. We putting the pressure on Bam. He gotta figure it out. He’s gotta be at 24 and 10. The 18 and 9 that’s solid numbers for a 3 option… he should be a dominant All NBA player next year” Jeff Teague via the Club520 Podcast.

Jeff Teague’s comments about Bam needing to average “24 and 10” to be considered a dominant, All-NBA player, while perhaps a bit of an exaggeration, highlight this reality. When you look at the short list of players who have averaged at least 24 points and 10 rebounds while also making an All-Defensive team, a list that includes legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, you see the company Bam is being measured against. These are not just great players; they’re all-time greats who were their team’s offensive engine and defensive anchor (they also all won the MVP in years they did this).

Credit to David for pointing this out.

@TwoWayDav
It’s no secret that the NBA values scoring. Players who put up big offensive numbers get the spotlight, and that often translates into awards. For a big man to make an All-NBA team, they typically need to be a primary or secondary offensive option, which is a role reserved for players who can consistently dominate the box score.

 

What Does Bam Do Already?

Bam Adebayo’s Ranks in Miami Heat Franchise History:

  • 4th in points

  • 2nd in rebounds

  • 3rd in assists

  • 4th in steals

  • 5th in blocks

  • 1st in double-doubles

  • 3rd in triple-doubles

1. He’s the Defensive Anchor Every Team Wants

Bam Adebayo is one of the few players in the NBA who can legitimately guard all five positions. His lateral quickness allows him to switch onto guards, his strength and timing let him body centers, and his anticipation disrupts passing lanes and screens alike. In the 2024-25 season, he’s averaging 1.1 steals and 0.7 blocks per game, also tallying 4.0 defensive win shares this past season, 7th in the NBA despite the Heat’s minimal defense. His iconic block on Jayson Tatum in Game 1 of the 2020 Eastern Conference Finals remains a defining moment, showcasing his ability to swing playoff games. Bam doesn’t just defend—he dictates the game’s flow, allowing Miami to deploy creative schemes while staying a top 10 defense.

Via @Dru_Star on X

“Bam might not get the credit that he is due because we got guys that score a lot more points. And that’s what people like. That’s pretty. That’s cute. But the one consistent piece that has kept that shit together is Bam.” –

@ThisIsUD

w/ @TaylorRooks

2. Rare Two-Way Versatility

Offensively, Bam is more dynamic than he’s ever been. This season he averaged 18.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, while shooting a career-best 35.7% from three. He’s not just a dunker or mid-range shooter anymore—he’s stretching the floor and creating for others, becoming a true modern big.

Bam ranks highly in every major category and would only get better with some pressure taken off.

At 28, Bam is in his prime—and his game is still evolving. He’s the rare big who can initiate offense, run dribble-handoffs, hit timely jumpers, and score efficiently inside. And he does it while still being your best defender on the other end. That’s superstar-level versatility.

What is the Standard?

Well, last season was a down year for Bam much in part to a slow start causing him to miss out on an All Star selection. Bam will have to be much improved to be All-NBA, but it is achievable.

Last year the three big men were

  1. Nikola Jokic- 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 57.6% FG, 41.7% 3P, 80.0% FT, 66.3% TS, 17 triple-doubles.
  2. Evan Mobley- 18.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.6 BPG, 55.7% FG, 37.0% 3P, 72.5% FT, 60.4% eFG, DPOY
  3. Karl Anthony Towns- 24.4 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG, 52.6% FG, 42% 3P, 82.9% FT, 58.4% eFG,

Bam- 18.1 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG, 48.5% FG, 35.7% 3P, 76.5% FT, 52.1% eFG,

Bam actually did receive one second place vote. 

So, Bam isn’t that far off, and definitely does not need to average 24/10 to be an All-NBA guy, but maybe the Heat just have to win more and Bam just has to be Bam.

In 2023, Bam’s best season he received just five votes, one second-team vote and four third-team votes. Adebayo was one of 10 players to receive votes without being named to an All-NBA team and still looks to add this to his already stout resume.

The Path to All-NBA

1. Become an Offensive Go-To Option. Especially in the Clutch

While he’s a skilled passer and efficient scorer, Bam needs to take on a larger offensive load. He’s already a fantastic in doing all the right things, but to get All-NBA recognition, he needs to expand his game as a primary scorer. This means a more consistent post-up game, a more reliable jumper, and the confidence to take over games offensively. The Heat need to trust him to be a featured scorer, not just a facilitator or third option. If Bam can unlock this level not only will the Heat get better, but the view of Bam across the league will improve. Consistency is key.

2. Change the Narrative

This is the hardest part. Bam’s value is often described in terms of “intangibles” and defensive impact, which don’t always translate into popular acclaim. He needs a breakout offensive season to force the conversation to be about more than just his defense. If he can consistently push his scoring into the low-to-mid 20s while maintaining his incredible defensive output, he would be impossible to ignore.

In the end, Bam Adebayo’s path to becoming an All-NBA player is about bridging the gap between his immense defensive value and the high-scoring expectations of the league. It’s a combination of personal growth, a change in how the Heat uses him, and a shift in how the league views a player who is a true superstar on both ends of the floor.

Bam had similar numbers to Evan Mobley, but the Cavs were worlds better than the Heat, in years prior Bam may have been snubbed, but this season Bam just needs to be consistent over 65+ games.

Final Thoughts

Bam’s defense has already cemented him as one of the defining big men of his generation. The numbers, the accolades, and the moments all back it up. But in a league obsessed with scoring, his path to All-NBA will come from pairing that defensive dominance with a clear jump in offensive production. A healthier, more balanced Heat roster can help him get there. With Norman Powell adding perimeter scoring/defense, growth from Kel’el Ware, and less burden on Bam to cover every defensive gap, he will have more energy and opportunity to assert himself as a go-to option on offense. If he can keep anchoring an elite defense while pushing his scoring into the low 20s, the votes will follow. The rest of the league may still be catching up to how rare his two-way impact is, but when they do, the All-NBA recognition will come because Bam Adebayo has been that player all along.

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: Can Tyler Herro take another leap?

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Is it wise to bet against someone who has improved every year of his career? It’s only possible to keep elevating when one spends numerous hours in the lab and desires more of their status. 

 

Of course, growth isn’t always linear and players plateau, but keep in mind that Tyler Herro was one of 10 ballers in 2024-25 to record at least 23 points per game on a minimum effective field goal percentage of 56.0. Notably, he played more games than the others on the list- Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Zach LaVine, Karl-Anthony Towns, Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant and Zion Williamson. 

 

Herro is entering his prime at age 25, coming off his first All-Star selection. He is finally settling into his grown man strength and creates separation easier than ever against the most pressure he’s ever seen. 

 

It would help the team if Herro became more of a threat, getting to the line, but it may not happen, accounting for his diet of shots sprinkled from short, mid and long range, unless he develops a killer feint as Dwyane Wade had. He might want to invest in that because it’s a league-wide epidemic that players can’t stay down.

 

An area he can improve is playmaking for others. His reads are sharper than ever, recording a career-high in assists (5.5) and in assist-to-turnover ratio (2.14) in 2024-25. Additionally, last year was his second consecutive logging over a 2.05 assist to turnover ratio.

 

His time of possession was 4.9 minutes per game last season, which was 25th for players who suited up for at least 70% of the year. It will presumably hover around the same spot even with the Norman Powell addition because Herro has the superior handle and is a better distributor. On top of that, Powell’s time of possession is 42% (2.1) of Herro’s.

 

Gauging Powell’s potency as a sniper, he should be a consistent screening weapon for Herro, who will then pass to him when triggering an overreaction. Playing faster is also a wise choice, particularly taking advantage of Bam Adebayo and Andrew Wiggins’ athleticism in the open court. 

 

If coach Erik Spoelstra wants to experiment with more on-ball reps for Powell, Wiggins or Adebayo, Herro can adapt because he spent the 2024 offseason getting off-ball practice in and then logged a 59.3EFG% on catch-and-shoot attempts from everywhere in 2024-25. 

 

Don’t forget that the Warriors successfully used Wiggins to take the ball up-court in 2021-22, which took eyes off Curry. Herro is not Curry, of course, but he can succeed in similar ways without the ball. One way would be if Spoelstra incorporated more split action with Adebayo as the perimeter screener for Herro. Many big men don’t want to be out there and can’t, so Herro will have extra time when Adebayo roadblocks someone. 

 

Yet Herro said at exit interviews on April 30 that he wants to focus on closing games, which will sometimes require him to be a playmaker or decoy. “Whether that’s making a play for myself or making a play for a teammate, but ultimately just making the right and overall best play for the team.” He added that he’ll use film to work on it. 

 

Going into his seventh season, the league likely hasn’t seen Herro’s best.

 

Katie Taylor defeats Amanda Serrano, remaining the undisputed champion

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The trilogy concluded with Katie Taylor claiming her third straight win over Amanda Serrano, keeping her junior welterweight championships with a majority decision in a bout that was the opposite of the first two. After 20 minutes of a high-level chess match, Taylor said her name is connected to Serrano’s forever. 

 

Taylor is an orthodox fighter, and Serrano is a southpaw. Naturally, a matchup like this can result in crashing heads and gnarly cuts, which happened to Serrano in the second fight on Nov. 15. This time, both combatants were far more appreciative of defense, to the point of frustrating the bloodthirsty crowd inside Madison Square Garden. After the fade, Serrano said she was trying to keep her distance and fight smarter because going guns blazing failed twice. 

 

The first round was quiet with only three punches connecting, per Compubox data. There was a flash of the prior two clashes in round three as both stood in the pocket, discharging venomous strikes, but Taylor won the exchanges via combinations and her left hook.

 

The pace slowed back to third gear with both of them fighting on the outside. It was more favorable for Taylor as she maneuvered around almost every inch of the ring, landing counters. One of the more memorable tradeoffs was the pair landing left hooks in the corner at the end of round eight, followed by Taylor’s jab.

 

In the ninth, Taylor took control, totaling seven power punches to the head. She was told going into the 10th that she needed the round. Serrano was informed by trainer Jordan Maldonado that she was ahead but also needed the round. 

 

Taylor subsequently was the bolder and more accurate fighter, emitting left hooks and straight rights. 

 

The three judges scored it 95-95, 97-93 and 97-93. and all of them awarded the last two rounds to Taylor.

 

Serrano said she would have to watch the fight, but believed her team that she won.

 

At the post-fight presser, Taylor said, “The game plan tonight was not [to] let her feet set.” 

 

When asked about retirement or having more left in her, she said she didn’t know but wanted to enjoy the victory and reflect before deciding. 

 

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: Heat front office still has its fastball, bringing in Norman Powell via trade

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The Heat wanted an upgrade as the Eastern Conference opened up because of injuries to a few squads and they made a nice splash in the three-team deal with the Clippers and Jazz, bringing in Norman Powell, age 32, and shipping out the vestige of Kevin Love and Kyle Anderson. 

 

Powell is an athletic two-way player who wants to live at the arc and cup, plus can maneuver on the dribble and roam without the ball. The self-shot creation should help Tyler Herro so he isn’t hounded as fiercely, as 39.9% of Powell’s two-pointers last season were unassisted. One of his valuable assets is his strength, helping him overpower slimmer opponents en route to the cylinder, where he converts 71.8% of tries.

 

He made 41.8% (7.1 attempts) of catch-and-shoot triples last season and 35% in the playoffs (5.7 attempts). His reliable sniping is added ordnance that will be used plenty on kick-outs from Bam Adebayo and Herro.  Taking advantage of Powell’s body as a screener is one of the ways to set this up.

 

To boot, Powell drained 179 3-pointers (41.8%) in the last regular season, which was the 29th most and only 11 behind Duncan Robinson (39.3%). The trade now fixes the spacing concerns that Robinson’s departure left. He will probably be guarded the same way, which should be another tool for the two-man game with Adebayo if he can get the ball to him after getting trapped outside for less contested rolls. 

 

Combining Powell with Andrew Wiggins and Adebayo gives the starting rotation three high-level athletes to work with. The defense was top nine last year, but it should be better in 2025-26, counting on Powell being a good option guarding up top before Davion Mitchell emerges from the bench with suffocating intentions. 

 

The committee, led by Nick Arison, still has their fastball, bringing a champion (2019) who still has years left of being a quality contributor. If the team can stay lucky and keep their health in 2025-26, they may have a top-six East outfit.

 

The Miami Heat Won’t Trade Bam Adebayo—And They Never Should: Five Reasons Why

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Bam Adebayo’s Ranks in Miami Heat Franchise History:

  • 4th in points

  • 2nd in rebounds

  • 3rd in assists

  • 4th in steals

  • 5th in blocks

  • 1st in double-doubles

  • 3rd in triple-doubles

The Miami Heat have one untouchable. Not Kel’el. Not Herro. It’s Bam Adebayo, and if you’re thinking otherwise, you haven’t been watching closely enough.

In light of recent trade hypotheticals making the rounds–involving Bam Adebayo–it’s time to draw a firm line in the sand: the Miami Heat will not trade Bam, and they absolutely shouldn’t.

Why? Because Bam Adebayo is more than just a stat line. He’s more than his All-Star nods or All-Defensive selections. He’s the soul of this team, a homegrown cornerstone who embodies everything the Heat stand for.

Since being drafted 14th overall in 2017, Adebayo has steadily developed into one of the NBA’s most versatile and impactful players. He’s a three-time All-Star, a five-time All-Defensive honoree, and arguably the best defensive big man in the league. But beyond the accolades, Bam is the identity of the modern Miami Heat.

He’s Heat Culture personified, gritty, loyal, relentless, team-first. And that’s precisely why the mere suggestion of trading him feels not only wrong. It feels impossible.

So, let’s break down five undeniable reasons why Bam Adebayo is untouchable:

1. He’s the Defensive Anchor Every Team Wants

Bam Adebayo is one of the few players in the NBA who can legitimately guard all five positions. His lateral quickness allows him to switch onto guards, his strength and timing let him body centers, and his anticipation disrupts passing lanes and screens alike. In the 2024-25 season, he’s averaging 1.1 steals and 0.7 blocks per game, also tallying 4.0 defensive win shares this past season, 7th in the NBA despite the Heat’s minimal defense. His iconic block on Jayson Tatum in Game 1 of the 2020 Eastern Conference Finals remains a defining moment, showcasing his ability to swing playoff games. Bam doesn’t just defend—he dictates the game’s flow, allowing Miami to deploy creative schemes while staying a top 10 defense.

Via @Dru_Star on X

“Bam might not get the credit that he is due because we got guys that score a lot more points. And that’s what people like. That’s pretty. That’s cute. But the one consistent piece that has kept that shit together is Bam.” –

@ThisIsUD

w/ @TaylorRooks

2. Rare Two-Way Versatility

Offensively, Bam is more dynamic than he’s ever been. This season he averaged 18.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, while shooting a career-best 35.7% from three. He’s not just a dunker or mid-range shooter anymore, he’s stretching the floor and creating for others, becoming a true modern big.

Bam ranks highly in every major category and would only get better with some pressure taken off.

At 28, Bam is in his prime, and his game is still evolving. He’s the rare big who can initiate offense, run dribble-handoffs, hit timely jumpers, and score efficiently inside. And he does it while still being your best defender on the other end. That’s superstar-level versatility.

3. The Face of Heat Culture

You can’t manufacture leadership. Bam has grown into that role organically.

Much like Dwyane Wade before him, Bam is a homegrown star who commands respect with his work ethic, toughness, and consistency. He’s not the loudest guy in the room, but he sets the tone in the gym and on the floor. He plays through injuries. He defends the best player on the court. He never complains. He shows up.

Trading Bam wouldn’t just send away your best player; it would be a betrayal of the franchise’s identity.

Via @Dru_Star on X

“When they were on the 10-game losing streak me & Bam would talk about not letting go of the rope. Stuff looks bad right now. Everything’s crumbling. I think Bam emerged as a leader. I think Bam is now the leader of the Miami Heat. I think he took the leader role…” –

@DwyaneWade

4. He’s Durable, Reliable, and Consistent

In a league where superstars often come with red flags around injuries or motivation, Bam is as steady as they come. He’s played at least 64 games in every season but 21/22, often through bumps and bruises that others would sit out. He doesn’t need to be load-managed. He shows up every night.

And he produces. Not in streaks, not in flashes, consistently. That’s why you build around him.

5. You Don’t Trade What You’re Trying to Find

Here’s the paradox of Bam trade rumors: teams spend years hoarding picks and assets trying to find a Bam Adebayo.

Trading Bam for picks or projects makes no sense, because Bam is the player you hope those picks become.
A leader. A defender. A floor-raiser. A winner.

Just look at what the Rockets and Thunder did. Yes, they tore it down and built-up assets, but they’re still looking for a Bam-level star. The Heat already have theirs. Why start over?

The Bottom Line

If you want to consider moving Herro, sure. But Bam there’s not many justifications. Herro, while a talented scorer, doesn’t shift the identity or ceiling of a team the way Bam does. Scoring guards are easier to replace—defensive anchors who can run your offense and lead your locker room are unicorns. Now, you only trade Herro if you can land another superstar to pair with Bam, someone who elevates the Heat to true championship contention.
My goal would still be to add a third star to this current core, Bam as the foundation, a new superstar, and Tyler Herro, or find a way to package Herro in a deal for a whale (Giannis, Anthony Edwards).
Players want to play with Bam, and it’s the organizations fault for putting them in this current position to pair one with him.
Yes, Miami’s asset chest is thin. But trading Bam? That’s not strategy, it’s malpractice. You don’t trade the foundation. You build on it.
Bam Adebayo is the kind of player you don’t trade. You build around him. He’s not just part of the Heat’s present—he is the future; the guy Miami needs to bring a championship back to South Beach.

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: Fever rising and the tumbling Aces

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The Indiana Fever minus Caitlin Clark started their five-game home stand, smacking down the Las Vegas Aces on Thursday. Two things should be clear: the Fever are a top-four team with a healthy Clark, and the Aces are in trouble. 

 

Indiana already had the league and public’s attention after schooling the Lynx in Tuesday’s Commissioner’s Cup final for the trophy and cash plus crypto prizes, without their dynamic flamethrower’s help. The outside artillery strikes weren’t falling against Las Vegas, but they were faster on dribble and the off-ball movement created openings.

 

Despite A’ja doing everything while the purposeless Wilsonettes were glued to the background, Aliyah Boston’s vigor was unequaled as she whooped coverages on rim attacks and jumpers.  Kelsey Mitchell added 25 digits on 50% shooting, dusting defenders and pulling up in their faces. She said after the game that defense is helping the team feast on the attack because of deflections and misses, creating transition.

 

Clark will soon return to a team whose recent connectivity levels are soaring like a shuttle in orbit. Adding her to the mix is like upgrading with turbo. 

 

On the other side, complex schemes and zones won’t save the Aces (8-9) because they are unathletic and older. Does the public need to observe another execrable performance after suffering one at the hands of the Golden State Valkyries, Seattle Storm and now the Fever?

 

Chelsea Gray retired her nickname point gawd being invisible rather than a defense bender. Jewell Loyd again proved why the Seattle Storm were ahead of the curve in getting rid of her. 

 

Coach Becky Hammon said her team lacked professionalism, arriving with their effort level and didn’t want to fight back in a “rugby match.” She was mostly disturbed by the amount of paint access and layups the Aces conceded, saying it was the worst offensive game she’s coached in her four seasons. 

 

On top of that, Las Vegas desperately moved their 2027 first-round pick for the talented but undependable NaLyssa Smith, who was defective in her debut, because the team has no other bigs besides Wilson. Keep in mind that they also moved their 2026 FRP to Seattle as part of the six-team swap that got them back what’s left of Loyd. 

 

Hammon mentioned their close win on the road in Phoenix and went on to bemoan what her squad has been, yet somehow concluded that the issues were more on them than on Indiana.  The opposite could be true: the Aces are done as a dynasty and sped up the demise of their build, picking Gray over Kelsey Plum. 

 

 

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: Duncan Robinson’s time in Miami, notes on Satou Sabally and more

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Duncan Robinson exercised his early termination option and is a free agent. This now gives the Heat the chance to use the full mid-level exception on anyone on the market. Considering the Heat’s suspect outside shooting and Bam Adebayo’s comfort in playing with Robsinson, he probably figures he can get more than $10 million guaranteed. He conspicuously missed exit media interviews after the Heat were swept by the Cavaliers.

 

After seven seasons, including six postseason appearances, as a Heatle, Robinson will be remembered as arguably the team’s top sniper ever. He never downed a shot of consequence like Ray Allen’s heartbreaker against San Antonio in Game 6, but he was a higher volume marksman (Allen’s Miami years). After he made his 500th trey as the fastest player in NBA history, coach Erik Spoelstra said it was staggering. “It really is a credit to how much work he has put into his craft to develop his shooting ability on the move, under duress and evolve versus different coverages and scouting reports that are designed to take him out of that shot.”

 

He is first all-time in regular season made triples (1,202) and first in the playoffs (147) for the Heat. He was an essential piece of the Heat’s 2020 outfit that made the Finals, losing in six to the Lakers, and on the eighth-seed crew in 2023 that also advanced to the championship round, losing in five to the Nuggets.  

 

To Robinson’s credit, he improved after Max Strus usurped his position and later left for the Cavaliers. His handle and inside off-ball movement became more of a feature, making him more than a 3-point threat. He is a decent connector on hand-offs, too, slipping the pass back when crowded, mainly to Adebayo. In fact, Robinson was second in assists to Adebayo (53), counting all Heatles in 2024-25.

 

His time has mattered. Don’t forget that he and Udonis Haslem are the only undrafted players in Heat history to log at least 4,000 points. 

 

LeBron is coming back for a 23rd season:

 

The all-time minutes leader, who will turn 41 on Dec. 30, will add to his record with another tour of duty as he has opted into his $52.6 million player option. His agent, Rich Paul, says he wants to compete for another title, but it would have been more accurate if he said, “Ol ‘Bron wants to win his way.”

 

No matter his age, James will always be an attraction if he’s wearing shorts and sneakers because he’s one of the game’s titans. Yet it’s hard to justify his salary when his legs don’t have the juice late in games as he used to, and he does not guard at a high level full-time. It’s impossible to win with his defensive impact combined with Luka Dončić’s refusal to guard. 

 

Paul also wanted to “evaluate what’s best for LeBron.” Got to wonder if that means legacy is more important than finances, which is only possible since he is the rarest of athletes as a billionaire. Keep in mind that his current salary is 5.26% of a billion dollars. With money like that, what helps him more: another short, max deal (over 38 rule ) or more championships to elevate his all-time status? 

 

(Forget about him taking the MLE or vet minimum.)

 

Keep eyeballs on Satou Sabally and the Mercury:

 

Satou Sabally is a top-level player because if her offense isn’t working, she will guard like she’s possessed. Her 3-point shot has disappeared, but she’s still dangerous at close range and is the Mercury’s leading scorer in her first season with her new club. 

 

Interestingly, Sabally recently told Lisa Leslie in an interview for Just Women’s Sports that felt she finally arrived in the WNBA when getting to Phoenix, which proves there is some good Mat Ishbia has done since acquiring the Mercury and Suns. The way she defends, the honeymoon period may never end. Her combination with new addition Alyssa Thomas and All-Star guard Kahleah Copper is the nucleus of one of the league’s top four teams. 

 

Sabally’s reps in Unrivaled, the three-on-three league created by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, sharpened her conditioning plus timing on reads, and her workouts with Jimmy Butler have paid off as she’s 12th in the first All-Star voting returns.

 

One of the best actions to use her in a horns set as the ball handler or cutter, taking advantage of her 6-foot-4 stature and power as she plunges toward the rim after crossing the screen. Additionally, Thomas is the teammate she has the best connection with, being the recipient of 21 baskets.  

 

After five seasons in Dallas, the Mercury are easily the best squad Sabally has been on. The Mercury are on pace for 31 wins and she’s never been on a team with more than 22. 

 

 

Kasparas Jakucionis to the Heat: A Surprise Slide, a Perfect Fit

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Kasparas Jakucionis Falls to No. 20 — and Right Into Miami’s Hands
(Pronounced: CAHS-per-us yah-koo-CHOH-nis)

For a team needing a point guard, shooting, and long-term upside, the Miami Heat found all three with the 20th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Kasparas Jakucionis, the Lithuanian-born combo guard who starred at Illinois and developed through the prestigious FC Barcelona system, wasn’t expected to be available this late. He didn’t even work out for the Heat. And yet, here he is — a lottery-level talent joining one of the NBA’s most structured and demanding cultures.

A Dream Realized

“I’m so excited. I’m just grateful for this moment, to be in this place, to get this opportunity to get my name called. It’s special for me. It’s what I was working for, all my life, since I was little. It’s a dream, but now it’s just the beginning.”
— Kasparas Jakucionis

It’s clear the moment wasn’t lost on him — nor the opportunity ahead.

“I think I can prove a lot there… I’m ready to work.”

Though he didn’t meet with Miami pre-draft, Jakucionis immediately pointed to the fit:

“The playmaking ability is what I do. I’m just grateful to play with a guy like Adebayo, play pick-and-roll.”

He also noted his excitement about teaming up with Tyler Herro and mentioned that he speaks fluent Spanish — a small but useful detail in Miami’s diverse locker room and city culture.

Heat’s Perspective: Adam Simon on the Pick

Vice President of Basketball Operations Adam Simon offered a candid look into the Heat’s thinking:

“I think this draft was a little different. It was a pretty unanimous top 8 from our board… Looking at this draft, it was a literal unpredictable.”

“We didn’t think he would be there. We had him higher than where we took him.”

The Heat tried to get Jakucionis in for a workout, but didn’t push too hard, assuming he’d be gone before their pick:

“We tried to get him in, but we didn’t think he’d be there at 20. We spent some time with him in Chicago.”

Simon highlighted his driving ability, vision, and overall offensive skill set:

“He showed versatility in his playmaking… His handle’s really strong, he understands the game very well. He’s a true leader, someone who can get the team organized.”

“He’s a very good scorer, he can get downhill and also make reads, and that’s just part of the learning process.”

Even with Jakucionis shooting just 31.8% from three in college, the Heat believe in his long-term potential:

“He’s projected based on our analytical numbers to become a good shooter.”

“There’s things in his game that he certainly has to work on… What he’s accomplished at the junior levels — everywhere he’s played, he’s been effective and efficient.”

Defensively, Simon acknowledged the limitations — but also emphasized mindset:

“What he has is a toughness to him. He has an edge, he has an IQ.”

“He’ll be an astute learner in our defensive systems. I think he’ll be able to defend at a high level in our league.”

On the concern of turnovers, Simon struck a patient tone:

“Turnovers are high, but they’re turnovers you can work with.”

And when asked about the bigger picture:

“It was important for us to make this pick tonight… It’s more important now to have more rookie-scale deals in the modern NBA.”

Offensive Conductor with High Upside

Jakucionis’ biggest strength? Running an offense with poise and vision. He’s not just a passer — he’s an orchestrator. At Illinois, he averaged 15.0 points and 4.7 assists per game, but the raw numbers don’t capture his feel. He reads defenses like a veteran, shifts pace effortlessly, and manipulates defenders with head fakes and body positioning.

In the pick-and-roll, he’s exceptional — threading tight windows and keeping defenders guessing. His ability to drive with control and finish through contact (71.7% at the rim) gives him real versatility, even without elite speed.

His three-point shot dipped after a midseason forearm injury, but early-season tape showed pull-up range and confidence. He finished at 31.8% from deep — below ideal, but promising, especially considering his 84.5% free-throw mark.

The main concern? Turnovers. At 3.7 per game, many were the product of overdribbling or hunting for highlight assists instead of making the simple play. It’s part of the young creator learning curve, but a clear development area.

Defensive Questions, Competitive Edge

Defensively, Jakucionis competes — but his tools are limited. The claims of lateral burst limitations have been debunked and I would say he just more so can’t play above the rim. He isn’t a disruptive playmaker yet still, he rotates well, stays locked in off the ball, and doesn’t take plays off. With added strength and coaching, he could become a neutral or slightly below-average defender. But he’ll need to be paired with better athletes on that end to stay out of mismatches.

Jakucionis rebounding ability is worth noting as well as he averaged 5.7 rebounds per game and is willing to play physical.

The Heat believe his edge and IQ can close the gap. As Simon put it: “He’ll be an astute learner in our defensive systems.”

National Perspective: A Steal at 20

ESPN draft analyst Jonathan Givony ranked Jakucionis No. 11 on his top 100 board and called it “surprising” that the Lithuanian guard slid to 20. But any disappointment over falling out of the lottery, he noted, was likely short-lived:

“Any temporary disappointment over the money he lost was probably replaced by the realization he landed in arguably the most desirable situation of any guard prospect in this draft — a team desperate for shot creation and playmaking.”

Givony praised Miami as an ideal landing spot, citing Jakucionis’ “culture and toughness” fit and his ability to play multiple backcourt roles. He called the pick his favorite of the draft outside the top 10.

“It wouldn’t be surprising to see him eventually emerge as the franchise’s future point guard, thanks to the savvy he displays running pick-and-roll and his exceptional feel for the game.”

His national media backing further cements what the Heat clearly believe: they got their guy, and he might be more than just a rotation piece. He might be a building block.

I struggled to find anyone who believes Jakucionis was a bade for the selection for the Heat except one National media member who has his own history with the franchise.

Trade Context: The Butler Deal

The Heat’s selection of Jakucionis also takes on more meaning in light of the blockbuster trade that sent Jimmy Butler to Golden State. In return, Miami received Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, Davion Mitchell, and the No. 20 pick — which became Jakucionis.

In essence, Miami turned an aging star into a defensive wing (Wiggins), a gritty guard (Mitchell), a versatile veteran (Anderson), and a high-upside young playmaker. The Heat didn’t just rebuild — they reshaped.

Long-Term Outlook

Jakucionis projects as a high-IQ second-unit playmaker with eventual starter potential. If his shot stabilizes and he cuts down on turnovers, he could become the kind of steady, creative guard every contender needs — someone who makes others better and raises the floor of a team’s offense. If not, he still profiles as a valuable bench piece with international experience, toughness, and leadership.

The floor is high. The ceiling? Higher than where he was drafted.