Heat Rally in Fourth to Top Rockets, 115-105
MIAMI – The Miami Heat overcame an early deficit and a resilient Houston Rockets squad, pulling away in the fourth quarter for a 115-105 victory Saturday afternoon at Kaseya Center. The win snapped a two-game losing streak for Miami and showcased a balanced attack led by Bam Adebayo’s dominant performance.
Adebayo finished with 24 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the Heat offense. Pelle Larsson added 20 points, including crucial baskets down the stretch, while Tyler Herro contributed 18. Jaime Jaquez Jr. And Kel’el Ware too chipped in with 14 and 13 points respectively, with Ware grabbing a game-high 15 rebounds.
Wiggins Sparks Fourth-Quarter Surge
The game took a dramatic turn in the fourth quarter, thanks in large part to the inspired play of Andrew Wiggins. After taking an elbow to the face from Houston’s Alperen Sengun – requiring six stitches to close a laceration – Wiggins returned to the court and ignited a pivotal Heat run. He assisted on an alley-oop to Ware and a three-pointer by Larsson, extending Miami’s lead to 100-92. Wiggins then sealed the victory with a driving dunk and a subsequent three-point play, pushing the Heat ahead 111-103 with just over two minutes remaining.
Wiggins finished with 12 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, providing a significant boost both offensively and defensively after his brief exit.
Durant Leads Rockets in Loss
Despite the loss, Kevin Durant led all scorers with 32 points, adding 8 assists and 6 rebounds for the Rockets. Amen Thompson recorded a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Reed Sheppard contributed 14 points and 5 assists. Tari Eason also posted a double-double with 10 points and 11 boards.
Early Rockets Run, Heat Respond
The Rockets started strong, building an early 14-4 lead capped by a three-pointer from Sheppard. But, the Heat quickly responded with an 8-0 run of their own. Adebayo’s three-pointer gave Miami a 27-26 lead, and the Heat carried a 32-28 advantage into the second quarter, shooting 6 of 13 from beyond the arc in the first frame.
Miami extended its lead to double digits on a tip-in by Ware, eventually leading 41-28. Houston answered with a 19-2 run, sparked by three-pointers from Sheppard and Durant, tying the game at 48. The Rockets ultimately took a 52-51 lead into halftime after Miami struggled from three-point range in the second quarter, missing 7 of 8 attempts.
Second Half Seesaw Battle
The third quarter saw both teams trade baskets, with neither able to establish a significant lead. The game remained tight throughout the period, setting the stage for the Heat’s decisive fourth-quarter run. Miami’s ability to capitalize on Wiggins’ return and their improved defensive intensity proved to be the difference.
The Heat shot 50% overall from the floor, demonstrating efficient offense throughout the contest. The Rockets, while competitive, were unable to maintain their early momentum and struggled to contain Miami’s balanced attack.
What’s Next
The Miami Heat will host the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Kaseya Center. The Houston Rockets will travel to Washington D.C. To face the Wizards on Monday, March 2, 2026.
Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the NBA season.
