Giannis finally takes Kaseya Center court for Heat, adding buzz to benefit scrimmage, ‘It’s good to be on this side’

Miami — The intrasquad preseason scrimmage on Tuesday night held significance as it marked the first time Giannis Antetokounmpo played in Heat colors on the team's court. The event, the Red, White & Pink Game, aimed to benefit the Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute, paying tribute to survivors and those battling breast cancer.

The game began with Heat players introduced alongside survivors, patients, and doctors, followed by the introduction of Antetokounmpo right before Bam Adebayo. Antetokounmpo addressed the crowd, expressing his excitement and motivation, stating, "It's good to be on this side." Adebayo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the night's focus on the cause.

The scrimmage featured five players from both teams: Antetokounmpo, Adebayo, Davion Mitchell, Klay Thompson, and Simone Fontecchio. Mitchell, who last dunked in an NBA game during the 2022-23 season while with the Sacramento Kings, showcased his skills with two dunking performances. Adebayo engaged in a joke-off with Antetokounmpo, responding to the question, "What did the fast tomato say to the slow tomato?" with "Ketchup."

The scrimmage also featured humor between Nikola Jovic and rookie Ryan Conwell, who attempted to score on Antetokounmpo. Notably, this was the first time host PA announcer Gale Nelson addressed the crowd, delivering a strong performance similar to the retiring Michael Baiamonte. The Heat's upcoming schedule includes three consecutive home exhibitions against the New Orleans Pelicans, Minnesota Timberwolves, Brooklyn Nets, and Orlando Magic, leading up to opening night against the Timberwolves on October 21.