Miami rookie sensation Jaime Jaquez Jr. fulfilled a personal dream by leading the Miami Heat (18-12) to a thrilling 119-113 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers (20-9) on Christmas Day.
Jaquez delivered a stellar performance with 31 points, securing his first double-double in an impressive display.
Bam Adebayo complemented Jaquez’s brilliance with 26 points and 15 rebounds, contributing significantly to the Heat’s success.
The absence of Joel Embiid, the reigning MVP and two-time scoring champion, due to an ankle sprain, posed a challenge for the 76ers.
Tobias Harris led Philadelphia’s effort with 27 points, and Kelly Oubre Jr. added 25, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Miami.
Despite facing injuries, with Jimmy Butler, Josh Richardson, and Haywood Highsmith sidelined, and losing Caleb Martin to an ankle sprain in the first half, the Heat showcased resilience.