Giannis Antetokounmpo helped the Miami Heat to their first win of the 2026-27 NBA season, a 129-117 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. The result ended a four-game losing streak.
Coach Erik Spoelstra praised his players for the way they handled a winless start. In his view, the response showed the character of the group, the Miami Herald reported.
Giannis Antetokounmpo keeps up his strong start
The Greek star posted 24 points and 18 rebounds, according to the game recap. It was his first win in a Heat jersey since his offseason move from Milwaukee.
Two days earlier, Giannis Antetokounmpo had recorded a triple-double against Dallas, with 29 points and 11 assists. Miami still lost that game 113-109, according to the NBA box score.
Read more: NBA Champ Thanasis Antetokounmpo Returns to Greek Basketball
Bam Adebayo also scored a season-best 24 points. He became the franchise’s career rebounding leader on the night, passing Udonis Haslem.
Miami shot 53 per cent from the field and scored 70 points in the paint. The Heat led by 13 at half-time and stretched the margin to 18 in the third quarter.
“Nobody was hanging their heads”
Spoelstra said the losing run had tested the squad, yet nobody gave up.
“We’ve been able to handle some adversity appropriately. Nobody was hanging their heads when they came in the next day. We were all frustrated to the start of the season. This one game is not all we’re looking for.”
He said the aim was bigger than one result, though.
“Obviously we’re trying to build something much bigger than that. It really was about coming together and trying to figure out solutions on how we all can be better and that was everybody, to a man, the last several days and that quality I think can serve us well as we continue this long journey of a long season.”
A long season ahead
For Greek fans, the win is a relief. Giannis Antetokounmpo has carried a heavy load since his first home game for Miami and his move to Florida.
The Heat still have plenty of work left. Next up is a clash with the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Cup.
Source: Citi Sports Online
