Norman Powell led Miami with 36 points in a 118-112 win over Detroit, reflecting on the team’s late-game execution. “I thought we got a little comfortable once we got up big…we were able to snap back into how we needed to be defensively and buckle down and get the stops we needed,” he said.
Powell highlighted the importance of individual plays within the team’s structure. “If they got space, shoot it…they were denying me not getting in rotation, so I really had to hunt in transition to get some good looks,” he said about his 27-foot three-pointer in the third quarter.
He praised the Heat’s adaptability against Detroit’s physical defense. “Not every night…we’re going to score 140. Everybody wants to see that…we got some good teams that play defense that’s physical. They’re going to take us out of our first, second, and third option,” Powell explained.
The guard also emphasized trust and team cohesion. “We got to be able to adjust and work the ball around and get the looks that we want…I thought we did a great job throughout the course of the game doing that,” he said.
Miami’s win extended their streak to four games, with key contributions from Bam Adebayo, who posted 15 points and 14 rebounds, and Jaime Jaquez Jr., who added 19 points. Powell’s scoring and defensive focus helped the Heat manage Detroit’s late push, holding the Pistons to 20% from three in the first half.
Powell reflected on the mental approach needed against a resilient opponent. “This is a young team. They’re tough. They’re physical. They want to win…they’re not going to give up,” he said, noting the Heat’s ability to respond to pressure and close out the game.
Miami also dominated the boards, pulling down 22 of 24 defensive rebound opportunities, which Powell credited as key to controlling the flow. “Playing together, trusting one another,” he said, underscoring the team’s collective effort in both transition and half-court situations.
Looking ahead, Powell dismissed the idea of new-year resolutions. “Not anymore. If you got to wait for the new year to make a resolution, then you’re probably not going to stick to it. I like it. Don’t look back,” he said, reflecting a focus on consistency and momentum.
The Heat will host Minnesota on Saturday, while Detroit visits Cleveland on Sunday.
