The Miami Heat edged the Houston Rockets 104-100 in a dramatic showdown Sunday night, but the game’s intensity boiled over late, resulting in seven ejections, including Miami’s Tyler Herro. Herro scored 27 points before being thrown out following a scuffle that erupted in the final minute.
With 35 seconds left and the Heat clinging to a 99-94 lead, Herro was thrown to the ground by Rockets rookie Amen Thompson. The altercation escalated as players and coaches from both benches flooded the court. The referees ejected Herro, Thompson, and Rockets guard Jalen Green, along with Houston head coach Ime Udoka and assistant coach Ben Sullivan. Miami’s Terry Rozier was also ejected for his involvement.
In an unrelated incident, Fred VanVleet was ejected moments later for making contact with referee Marc Davis after being called for a 5-second violation.
Herro’s contributions were instrumental before his ejection. He orchestrated Miami’s comeback, including a clutch assist to Haywood Highsmith for a 3-pointer that tied the game with 4:47 remaining. Herro also hit the go-ahead jumper with 1:56 left, giving Miami a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
Nikola Jovic shone in Jimmy Butler’s absence, contributing 18 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Highsmith added 15 points, including his crucial 3-pointer during Miami’s fourth-quarter surge.
Houston, fresh off a blown 15-point lead against Minnesota, once again faltered in the final frame. Leading 92-85 after a Fred VanVleet layup with 8:10 remaining, the Rockets missed their next 11 shots, allowing Miami to seize momentum. Dillon Brooks, returning after a three-game absence, led Houston with 22 points but couldn’t stem the offensive struggles.
The Rockets’ failure to capitalize on second-chance opportunities was notable. Despite being the NBA’s best offensive rebounding team, Houston was outscored 15-9 in second-chance points.
With 47 seconds left, Nikola Jovic nailed a pivotal 3-pointer to put Miami up 98-94, setting the stage for the game’s chaotic finish. In the final minute, VanVleet’s frustration boiled over, leading to his dismissal after making contact with a referee.
Miami showed resilience despite being shorthanded and playing on the second night of a back-to-back. Herro’s leadership and Jovic’s all-around performance were key to the win.
Houston’s inability to close games remains a glaring issue. The team’s fourth-quarter struggles continued, and the ejections only compounded their woes.
Miami hosts the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. Houston looks to rebound at home against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday.
This game will undoubtedly be remembered not only for the Heat’s comeback but also for the chaotic ending that highlighted the passion—and volatility—on both sides.
