Tyler Herro leads Miami Heat to victory but gets ejected in dramatic fight

In Houston, on December 29, 2024, the Miami Heat triumphed over the Houston Rockets with a score of 104-100 in a game that was overshadowed by on-court violence in the final minute. Tyler Herro, who was instrumental in Miami’s victory with 27 points, found himself at the center of the chaos when he was thrown to the ground by Amen Thompson of the Rockets. This incident triggered an all-out confrontation that saw players and coaches from both sides rush onto the court, leading to several ejections. Ultimately, both Thompson and Herro were thrown out of the game, alongside other key figures including Rockets guard Jalen Green and coaches Ime Udoka and Ben Sullivan. Miami had built a lead late in the game, having previously been down 92-85, thanks in large part to a significant drought from the Rockets, who failed to score on their next 11 shots, allowing Miami to stage a comeback. Nikola Jovic, stepping up in the absence of Miami’s star player Jimmy Butler, contributed with 18 points and several critical rebounds, while Haywood Highsmith hit a crucial three-pointer that tied the game late. As the game progressed, it became clear that Miami had adjusted their strategy effectively, particularly in capitalizing on second-chance opportunities. The Rockets, on the other hand, seemed to falter under the pressure during pivotal moments in the fourth quarter, reminiscent of their struggles in a previous game. The ejection of Fred VanVleet in the final minutes for making contact with the referees further added to Houston’s woes. This game not only highlighted the immediate rivalry between the two teams but also underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Rockets in closing out games after building leads. In summary, this match will likely be remembered for the turmoil on the court and the heated exchanges that escalated during the closing minutes, overshadowing the skillful performance of both teams.