

San Antonio Spurs 87 – 88 Miami Heat | NBA Summer League | July 4, 2026
The Miami Heat edged the San Antonio Spurs 88–87 in a tightly contested NBA Summer League matchup on July 4, 2026. The game, played in Las Vegas, featured young talent battling for roster spots and development. A last-second tip-in by the Heat secured the victory, spoiling a strong comeback effort by the Spurs.
Match Overview
Summer League is often about individual performances, but this game turned into a team battle. San Antonio led for much of the second half, but Miami’s defensive adjustments and opportunistic scoring kept them within reach. The final minute saw three lead changes, with the Heat taking the final advantage with just 1.2 seconds left.
Key Moments
- Spurs’ third quarter surge: San Antonio outscored Miami 25–18 in the third frame, building a 70–64 lead.
- Heat’s fourth quarter grit: A 7–0 run midway through the fourth brought Miami back, setting up the dramatic finale.
- Game-winner: After a missed three-pointer, Heat forward Jaden Clarke tipped in the offensive rebound as time expired, breaking the 87–88 deadlock.
Tactical Story
Both teams prioritized defense in the paint, contesting nearly every interior shot. The Spurs’ ball movement was crisp (22 assists), but they struggled from beyond the arc (7-of-25). Miami, conversely, forced 15 turnovers and converted them into 20 points, proving the decisive factor in a one‑possession game.
Standout Players
- Heat: Rookie Jaden Clarke not only delivered the winning tip‑in but also posted 16 points and 11 rebounds for a double‑double.
- Spurs: Second‑year guard Isaiah Harper scored a game‑high 23 points on efficient shooting (10‑of‑16) and added 5 assists.
Season Impact and Development Notes
For the Heat, this win showcases their organizational culture of finding contributors in summer competition. Clarke’s performance strengthens his case for a two‑way contract. The Spurs will view this as a learning experience; Harper’s individual growth is promising, but the team must improve its late‑game execution. Both squads continue their Summer League campaigns with valuable reps.