Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat

San Antonio Spurs basketball was worth the wait as they showcased their skills in their first preseason game, scoring 81 points in the first half. Unfortunately, they lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder with a close score of 122-121. Now, they are determined to bounce back against a Miami Heat team that has decided to rest a majority of their roster.

Notable absences for the Heat include Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro, and Bam Adebayo, among others. On the other hand, the Spurs will welcome back Jeremy Sochan, one of their key players, who has declared himself fully healthy and ready to contribute. Keldon Johnson, who missed San Antonio’s first preseason game, is doubtful for the upcoming game in the newly named Frost Bank Center.

Once again, all eyes will be on Victor Wembanyama, who captivated a national audience with his impressive debut, recording 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. The Spurs’ rookie has already displayed his incredible potential for producing breathtaking highlights and is eager to continue impressing the home crowd.

San Antonio Spurs (0-1) vs. Miami Heat (1-0)

October 9, 2023 | 7 P.M. CT

Watch: TNT | Listen: WOAI/KXTN

Spurs injuries: Khem Birch – Questionable (undisclosed), Keldon Johnson – Questionable (general soreness)

Heat injuries: Bam Adebayo – Out (undisclosed), Kyle Lowry – Out (undisclosed), Tyler Herro – Out (undisclosed), Kevin Love – Out (undisclosed), Josh Richardson – Out (foot), Jaime Jaquez Jr. – Out (groing), Nikola Jovic – Out (knee), Caleb Martin – Out (knee), Jimmy Butler – Out (dental procedure)

What to watch for

Jeremy Sochan’s return

After his last game on March 22 against the Milwaukee Bucks where he scored 13 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and dished out 3 assists, fans have been eagerly awaiting Sochan’s return. As an integral part of the Spurs’ success last season, his performance will significantly impact their performance in the upcoming 2023-24 season. This preseason game will provide fans with a first glimpse of the improvements Sochan has made over the summer.

According to Doug McDermott, Sochan has been working extensively with the Spurs’ new shooting coach, Jimmy Baron. A strong shooting performance from Sochan will boost fan confidence even further.

The combination of Sochan and Wembanyama, both on and off the court, has been widely discussed. Their chemistry will be on display and is expected to cause trouble for opponents on the defensive end. Additionally, their high basketball IQ and ability to work well with each other and their teammates will be showcased throughout the season, making their developing chemistry a fascinating aspect to observe.

Malaki Branham’s scoring

Amidst the attention on Wemby’s debut, Branham delivered a strong scoring performance, accumulating 15 points on an efficient 6-of-8 shooting from the field, including two three-pointers. Branham showcased the same skills that contributed to his successful rookie season, such as excellent mid-range scoring and the ability to finish through contact. With a three-point shooting improvement as a pivotal skill this year, Branham’s performance will be crucial.

Given Miami’s depleted roster, Branham has the opportunity to shine with extended playing time. Another impressive scoring night from him would not come as a surprise.

Youthful players seizing opportunities

Considering the absence of most of the Heat’s veterans, the Spurs have the potential to establish a significant lead early in the game. In such a scenario, younger players on the Spurs’ roster, including Blake Wesley, Dominick Barlow, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Julian Champagnie, Sir’Jabari Rice, and Sidy Cissoko, can expect more playing time. Watching how these unproven players perform in the preseason will determine their chances of earning more minutes come October 25th.

The preseason acts as a platform for these players to showcase their skills and stand out against the Heat. Let’s see who rises to the occasion.