Jimmy Butler Calls Bam Adebayo The ‘Heart And Soul’ Of Miami Heat

All-Star Jimmy Butler led Miami Heat to a game one victory over the Boston Celtics but he credited Bam Adebayo as the key piece in the win. The star guard took to Instagram to call Adebayo the “heart and soul” of the Miami squad.

One of the biggest moments of the match came at the final possession of the Celtics where Jayson Tatum had an open lane to the basket. With the Heat up 116-114, the Boston star was able to get himself a clear dunk attempt. The potential game-tying basket was sent back by Adebayo and sealed the win for Miami.

"He is a tremendous defender," Celtics coach Brad Stevens said, as reported by ESPN.

The final score tallied at 117-114 where the Heat is now ahead in the Eastern Conference Finals at 1-0.

"We're going to have to figure out, again, better ways to attack, especially late. I thought we really moved it at times, then we did get stagnant," Stevens continued.

After the game, Butler took to social media to repost a video of the game-saving block by Adebayo and praised his teammate for the effort. Overall it was a strong performance from the Heat, highlighted by a tremendous defensive play by Adebayo.

It was another well-balanced affair for Miami as five players scored in double figures. Other than Butler’s clutch baskets towards the end of the game, Erik Spoelstra’s roster played well throughout the match. Veteran guard Goran Dragic led all scorers with 29 points, seven rebounds, four assists and made three baskets from beyond the arc. For rookie Tyler Herro, he was an assist shy of a triple-double as he put up 12 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists. To add to these, Jae Crowder made five three-pointers while Adebayo also scored 18 points to go along with nine rebounds and two blocks.

It has been a stellar year for Adebayo as he averaged 15.9 points and 10.2 rebounds and 5.1assists a night. The versatile big man has been one of the more significant players for the Heat as he was selected as a first time All-Star this season.

The next game of the series is scheduled on Sept 17, 2020.