Giannis Antetokounmpo debuts for Miami Heat

Giannis Antetokounmpo made his debut for the Miami Heat in a 129-105 preseason victory over the Toronto Raptors in Quebec, Canada. The 31-year-old superstar played for 14 minutes and seven seconds, recording nine points, four rebounds, and seven assists with two turnovers, shooting 3/3 from the field and 3/4 from the free-throw line.

Key contributors for Miami included Tim Hardaway Jr. with 14 points, Pelle Larsson with 13, and Bam Adebayo with 10 points and six rebounds. Toronto was led by RJ Barrett and Tyrese Kie, who each scored 15 points, while the Raptors' new acquisition Kawhi Leonard did not participate. Antetokounmpo, who spent his previous career with the Milwaukee Bucks, noted his positive adjustment to the "Heat Culture" during early training sessions.

Miami plans to manage Antetokounmpo’s workload carefully throughout the preseason to ensure his fitness for the regular-season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 21. Antetokounmpo aims to integrate quickly with his new teammates and coaching staff under Erik Spoelstra after a 2025-26 season limited by injuries.