On Thursday, the Miami Heat honored their president, Pat Riley, by dedicating the team’s home court to him.
It was a fitting tribute to a legend, who first joined the organization in 1995 and will soon be marking his 30th year with the Heat. Riley, who had two tenures as head coach and has been the team’s longtime president, made sure to share his special moment with his wife, Chris, to whom he spoke directly as he ended his moving speech.
“I want to get this one right. It was one summer night on a crowded mezzanine in San Diego and I saw perfect. The most beautiful woman ever, her flowered summer dress swaying softly as she walked towards me,” Riley told the 20,000-strong Heat crowd. “Saw those hazel eyes and my heart leaped. … I went for her like Udonis Haslem is going to go for a loose ball on that court right there…”
“It will end here one day. And that stamp here and that stamp over there, that’s what it’s all about, sweetie,” Riley concluded, as he pointed to two spots on the Miami floor that will bear his signature and name from now on. “We made it. We made it. I love you. Thank you.”
Miami legend Dwyane Wade and current Heat vice president Alonzo Mourning led a cadre of former players in attendance, while others sent messages of congratulations and support.
Magic Spoil the Moment
The Riley tribute, however, ended in disappointment as the visiting Orlando Magic waylaid the Heat, 116-97, to get their 2024–24 season off to a rousing start.
After a tight first half, 62-58, the Magic pulled away in the third, scoring the first 12 points right after intermission, when Riley’s tribute was held. Miami just did not have an answer for Orlando, who dropped 39 big points in the third canto while holding down the Heat to only 19.
Paolo Banchero was sensational for the Magic, finishing with 33 points and 11 rebounds. Franz Wagner chipped in 23 points on 10-for-16 shooting from the field, while Gary Harris added 18 off the points, all on three-pointers. Terry Rozier led the Heat with 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists.
What’s Next?
Orlando next plays at home on Saturday against the Brooklyn Nets. Miami, meanwhile, goes on the road to face the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday.
