Spurs guard Stephon Castle has been named the NBA’s Rookie of the Month for the Western Conference in January, while Heat center Kel’el Ware has earned the honor for the Eastern Conference, the league announced today (via Twitter).
Castle, the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft, appeared in 12 games for San Antonio last month, starting 10 of them. He averaged 14.9 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in 27.0 minutes per game, with a shooting line of .431/.288/.727.
Of the nine San Antonio players who logged at least 100 minutes in January, Castle had the best net rating of the bunch (+1.0) and was one of just two Spurs – along with Victor Wembanyama – whose net rating was positive.
Over in the East, Ware began playing a regular rotation role for the Heat in late December and carried that momentum over to the new year, earning a promotion to the starting lineup midway through January.
In 16 total outings (five starts) for the month, Ware averaged 13.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in 24.7 minutes per night. He also scored extremely efficiently, with shooting percentages of 56.5% from the floor and 44.7% on three-pointers.
Stephon Castle, Kel’el Ware Named Rookies Of The Month
In an exciting announcement for basketball fans, Stephon Castle and Kel’el Ware have been named the Rookies of the Month for their outstanding performances on the court.
Castle, a dynamic guard with a knack for scoring, has been a standout player for his team with his impressive shooting and playmaking abilities. Meanwhile, Ware, a dominant big man with a strong presence in the paint, has been a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the floor.
Both players have quickly made a name for themselves in the league and have shown immense potential for the future. Fans can’t wait to see what they have in store as they continue to make their mark in the NBA.
Congratulations to Stephon Castle and Kel’el Ware on this well-deserved honor!
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Stephon Castle, Kel’el Ware, NBA rookies, Rookies of the Month, NBA news, basketball updates, young talents, standout players
Because the next big thing for the Miami Heat remains a work in progress, as evidenced by the pounding Erik Spoelstra’s team received in Wednesday night’s 126-106 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Kaseya Center.
The thought when Spoelstra finally relented and moved 7-foot rookie Kel’el Ware into the starting lineup alongside 6-9 Bam Adebayo five games ago was the Heat no longer would be a team getting sand kicked in their faces by bigger opponents, no longer to be dominated on second-chance points and points in the paint.
And then arrived quality opposition in the form of the Eastern Conference leaders, and, so . . . sand was kicked in their faces by bigger opponents, and the Heat were dominated on second-chance points and points in the paint.
“We’re a bigger front line and this needs to be corrected,” Spoelstra said. “There are no excuses now. We have to be a lot more physical and purposeful on the glass.”
The numbers were evidence of the ire, with the Heat outscored 68-38 by the Cavaliers in the paint, 20-10 on second-chance points, with an overall 47-35 rebounding deficit.
It was a reminder that for all of Ware’s length, it also is 20-year-old length, leaving last June’s No. 15 pick out of Indiana very much a work in progress.
“I mean, we’re still working through things, trying to figure out how we can obviously get better through these ups and downs and be more consistent,” said Adebayo, who closed Wednesday with 21 points and nine rebounds, to only five points and nine rebounds from Ware. “Obviously the second-chance points is a big problem that we’ve got to hone in on, but it’s not just ’cause we got two bigs out there you think you’re going to fix a problem.
“You’re trying to add pressure to a rookie that just really started getting his minutes and started to get his feet wet. So I don’t really look at it in that sense. But we do, collectively, as a group, have to get better in rebounding.”
In addition to the issues on the glass, the matchup against the Cavaliers’ defense exposed the work-in-progress element of the Heat’s dual-big approach, with a lack of proper spacing suffocating the offense.
“That’s what we’re talking about a lot,” said guard Terry Rozier, who along with Tyler Herro led the Heat with 22 points Wednesday night. “We’re watching a lot of film, seeing how we can feed off one another.”
The goal, Rozier said, is something closer to what the Cavaliers feature with dual big men in their lineup, with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley both closing with double-doubles on Wednesday night.
“Obviously you see their two bigs. I think that’s what we’re trying to get to with our offense, where they’re playing well off one another,” Rozier said. “It’ll happen, it’ll happen. We’ve got two bigs that space the floor. Sometimes it can be a problem. Sometimes it can be helpful. We’ve just got to find that.”
For all the hype, the Heat stand 2-3 with Ware as a starter.
“It’s a work in progress,” Adebayo said. “It’s been a small sample size, so you’ve got to work through it. Everybody’s going to point that out, because it’s like, ‘Oh, that’s the glaring,’ because that’s supposed to be the fix. There’s going to be ups and downs to this.”
With Wednesday decidedly down, as the Heat dropped back to .500, at 23-23, with a four-game trip up next, starting Saturday against the San Antonio Spurs.
It was against the Spurs two weeks ago that sparked the decision by Spoelstra to move forward with Ware as starter.
Before that game, the acceptance was of Ware as a work in progress. Now the ante has been raised with Ware as a starter.
“There’s a lot of decision making there,” Spoelstra said of Ware’s increased responsibilities. “One, you have to defend with purpose and intent and physicality and without fouling, not giving up the short hooks or things right at the rim at a high rate.”
And, on the other end, work in lockstep with the offense.
“We had a really crowded paint,” Spoelstra said of the loss to the Cavaliers. “I don’t think there was a whole lot that we were doing consistently that was hard to guard.
“There were some really poor spacing possessions, poor decision possessions, some poor shot-selections possessions, and then we’ll figure out a shot distribution from there.”
But patience, Herro said, not panic.
“Still working through it,” he said. “Obviously it’s new for us, playing two bigs. So still working on the spacing. Like I said the other day, some nights it’ll look better than others.”
Originally Published:
Kel’el Ware-Bam Adebayo: A Work in Progress for Miami Heat
As the Miami Heat continue to strive for success in the NBA, one player who has shown immense potential is Kel’el Ware-Bam Adebayo. Adebayo, the 6’9″ power forward/center, has quickly become a key player for the Heat, providing strong defense, rebounding, and scoring in the paint.
However, Adebayo is still a work in progress. At just 24 years old, he has plenty of room for growth and development. His offensive skills are improving, but he still has room to expand his scoring repertoire and become a more consistent threat on that end of the floor.
Defensively, Adebayo has already established himself as one of the top big men in the league. His ability to guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and switch onto guards has been crucial for the Heat’s success. However, there is always room for improvement, and Adebayo can continue to refine his defensive skills and become an even more dominant force on that end of the floor.
Off the court, Adebayo’s work ethic and dedication to improving his game are evident. He is constantly working on his craft, whether it be in the weight room, on the court, or studying film. His willingness to put in the work and strive for greatness is what sets him apart from other players.
As Adebayo continues to develop and grow, he has the potential to become a perennial All-Star and a key piece for the Miami Heat for years to come. With his combination of size, skill, and work ethic, the sky is the limit for Kel’el Ware-Bam Adebayo.
Former Indiana basketball standout Kel’el Ware wasn’t on many minds regarding the NBA Rookie of the Year award at the beginning of the season.
The Miami Heat center is now. According to BetMGM, Ware currently has the best odds to win the award (+150). Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey, the two-time national player of the year at Purdue, sits in fifth at +2200.
Ware, who spent one season at IU, averages 8.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1 block per game. In the last three games, Ware has scored at least 20 points, grabbed at least eight rebounds and blocked two shots per contest.
According to Vegas Insider, Ware opened the season at +5000. Ware was drafted 15th overall by the Heat in June.
Former Indiana basketball center Kel’el Ware is quickly making a name for himself in the NBA as a top contender for Rookie of the Year. The 7-foot-tall player has been turning heads with his impressive skills on the court, showcasing his dominance in the paint and ability to score at will.
Ware, who was drafted in the first round by the Indiana Pacers, has been making a strong case for himself as the favorite to win the prestigious award. His agile footwork, strong defensive presence, and scoring prowess have set him apart from other rookies in the league.
With his size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, Ware has the potential to become a game-changer in the NBA. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see what he will accomplish in his rookie season and beyond.
Keep an eye on Kel’el Ware as he continues to make waves in the NBA and solidify his status as the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year. With his talent and determination, the sky’s the limit for this promising young player.
When Kel’el Ware was drafted 15th by the Miami Heat last June, it wasn’t certain when the Indiana product would break into Miami’s rotation — after all, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra focuses more on the game ahead than he presumes anything about the big picture.
Concentrating on a given possession is how Spoelstra has remained dialed in enough to routinely churn out winning seasons, deep playoff runs and a Hall of Fame resume.
In Ware’s case, though, many onlookers have simply been curious and excited about the 7-footer’s NBA potential, even as he took some time to find his stride in the pro ranks. But Ware’s growing presence in Miami’s lineup has offered promising flashes of the future while raising the team’s ceiling amid an up-and-down season. The rest of the NBA world is now taking notice of Miami’s prized rookie, who was sent down to the G League last month to get more playing time and shorten his learning curve for the pro level.
Ware has become the favorite to win this season’s Rookie of the Year, according to Bovada. If he does take home the honor, the 20-year-old would be the first Heat player to win the award. Kendrick Nunn (second in 2019), Dwyane Wade (third in 2003-04) and Caron Butler (third in 2002-03) have the highest voting finishes in franchise history.
Kel’el Ware is the new favorite to win rookie of the year, per @BovadaOfficial
Kel’el Ware +190 Stephon Castle +260 Alex Sarr +350 Jaylen Wells +400 Zach Edey +1400 Isaiah Collier +5000 Yves Missi +5000 Zaccharie Risacher +6000 Dalton Knecht +10000 Ryan Dunn +10000 Bub… pic.twitter.com/SDilLlzEMm
“I know that Kel’el generates a lot of opinions out there — let us do our job,” Spoelstra told reporters on Jan. 19. “Let him do what he’s been doing. The initial thing was to get him comfortable, get him in a role where he could impact the game, and the second unit has been coming along. It’s been one of our bright spots in the last several weeks, and he’s been getting really comfortable in that role. And what he’s done with his play and ability to impact the game is earn more. That’s what you want to see. That’s what you want all players to do: earn more, make us watch you, make us have to play you, make us have to think about not playing you and make us continue to figure out other things and just keep you on the court. That’s what he’s doing right now.”
Nobody around the Heat has been shy about Ware’s upside, but the payoff has been exciting nonetheless.
His shot-blocking has made it frightening for aspiring shooters to so much as toe a line into the paint, let alone try scoring against his 7-foot-4 wingspan. That credible reason to induce hesitation is why teammate Bam Adebayo enjoys playing alongside Ware, as the latter’s presence allows Adebayo to blitz pick-and-rolls and roam the perimeter for defensive stops. While Adebayo has established himself as arguably the most versatile defender in the NBA, this allows him to essentially play free safety on defense. In the last week, according to NBA.com, the Heat are allowing only 91.6 points per possession in the 58 minutes Ware and Adebayo have shared the court, which would easily make for the league’s best defensive rating over an entire season. Opponents are shooting just 38.1 percent against Miami’s new defensive duo in that span.
Although Miami endured a 125-96 road loss to the Milwaukee Bucks last Thursday, there were more promising flashes of Ware and Adebayo playing alongside one another. In that game’s early stages, when the Heat held a 15-3 lead during the first quarter, Ware focused on Damian Lillard as Lillard came off a double-screen before driving to the lane. Ware showed his quick feet and kept up with Lillard, who attempted a layup after Adebayo swatted at the ball during the drive attempt before collecting the rebound.
For much of the season, Ware has spent time in the gym to get his weight up and better position himself against stronger NBA veterans. In the second period of that Milwaukee loss, Bucks center Brook Lopez sealed off Ware for positioning before taking the entry pass and attacking the rim, but Ware used his quickness and length to recover and block Lopez’s layup attempt. Notice Adebayo sealing off Giannis Antetokounmpo away from the ball, which Adebayo hopes becomes commonplace as he and Ware play together more.
“I get back to switching a little bit, guarding my yard — not being in a drop zone all year,” he said. “It’s a good switch-up for us.”
On offense, Ware has already shown promise as a credible floor-spacer because of his shooting touch; he ranks second among Heat players in 3-point shooting percentage since New Year’s Day (41 percent, behind only Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s 44 percent).
Kel’el Ware Since Jan. 1
NBA Rookie Rank
Points
184
1st
Points in paint
112
1st
Blocks
21
1st
Rebounds
97
2nd
Double-doubles
3
2nd
Steals
10
T-2nd
3-pointers
16*
6th
* On 41 percent shooting
But before Ware is placed in any 3-point shooting contests, Miami will embrace his penchant for getting easy shots in the paint. Since Jan. 1, he’s shooting 72.7 percent on shots from within 5 feet of the rim, has finished 17 of 19 alley-oop attempts and flushed 34 total dunks. During Miami’s 106-97 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, Ware wasn’t efficient on offense (3-of-11 shooting, no free-throw attempts), but he still warranted attention as teammates attacked the paint.
Here, Jaquez drove the lane for a second-quarter drive as Nets center Nic Claxton stepped up to contest what would’ve been an attempted floater … until Jaquez simply lobbed the ball for Ware to slam it home.
In the first half of Miami’s loss to Milwaukee last week, Tyler Herro got caught in the air with onlooking Bucks defenders before tossing the ball in the air for his rookie big to do the rest.
Such an adjustment is something Herro looks forward to building on after expressing optimism about Ware’s promise well before oddsmakers started taking notice.
“I love playing with Kel’el,” Herro said last month. “I just look forward to the growth of our chemistry, our two-man action — and then, the growth of Kel’el himself. He’s been really, really good since we’ve gotten him. From the beginning of training camp, you see the glimpses, the skill set … just the raw versatility that he brings on both ends. He’s so effective defensively, just protecting the rim, making everything difficult. And then, on offense, you see the lob threat. You just throw it up there, and he goes and gets it. I love playing with guys like that.”
(Top photo: Issac Baldizon / Getty Images)
Miami Heat rookie Kel’el Ware has been turning heads since the start of the NBA season, and his impact on the team has not gone unnoticed. With each game, Ware’s performance on the court has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing his skills and potential as a future star in the league.
As a result, Ware’s odds of winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award have continued to soar, with many analysts and fans alike recognizing his standout performances. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, as well as his basketball IQ and maturity on the court, have all played a key role in his success so far.
The Miami Heat organization has high hopes for Ware, and his development has been a bright spot in what has been an up-and-down season for the team. With his continued growth and impact on the court, it’s clear that Ware is a frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Kel’el Ware as he continues to make waves in the NBA. With each game, he is proving why he deserves to be in the conversation for the Rookie of the Year award, and his future in the league looks brighter than ever.
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Kel’el Ware, NBA Rookie of the Year, Miami Heat, rookie sensation, rising star, NBA impact player, NBA award contender, NBA rookie standout, Miami Heat standout, Kel’el Ware news, NBA rookie odds, NBA rising star Kel’el Ware
Adebayo praised Ware in the lead up to the Portland game, with Erik Spoelstra bringing the draft pick into the starting line-up.
Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images
Fans impressed with Kel’el Ware
The positive vibes around the Miami Heat were spiked by the team dropping to a defeat to the Portland Trail Blazers.
Just behind Duncan Robinson’s 22 points, Kel’el Ware scored 20, posting a double-double with 15 rebounds.
Heat fans were not happy with the loss, but they were very impressed with Ware’s performance.
One wrote on social media: “Kelel Ware stat sheet is insane every game.”
Another added: “Pat really said we got Wemby at home with Kelel Ware and he was right.”
“Kelel Ware so good man,” wrote another, while one fan posted: “Kelel Ware is a Beast.”
Another impressed fan wrote: “Kelel Ware is already better than Bam offensively and he’s just a rookie.”
“The only bright spot about this game is Kelel Ware,” reflected another.
Kel’el Ware gets backing
Kel’el Ware won’t feel good about coming in as a starter and seeing the team lose, but there is more to it than that.
Ware has high potential, and coach Erik Spoelstra addressed his performance post-game, and spoke highly. Spoelstra said Ware can expect to continue in the line-up.
He explained: “The upside obviously is very encouraging. That’s why he’s in the starting line-up right now. Frankly we need to get him in there for more minutes.”
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“Miami Heat Fans React to Kel’el Ware’s Performance in Shock Loss to Trail Blazers: ‘He’s the Future’”
In a heartbreaking loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, rookie Kel’el Ware showed flashes of brilliance on the court, leaving Miami Heat fans in awe of his potential. Despite the defeat, fans took to social media to praise the young center’s performance and express their excitement for his future with the team.
Many fans noted Ware’s impressive scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and defensive presence in the game, with some even comparing him to past Heat greats. Some fans went as far as to say that Ware is the missing piece the team needs to reach the next level and compete for a championship.
Overall, Miami Heat fans are in agreement that Kel’el Ware is a special talent with a bright future ahead of him. While the loss was disappointing, fans are confident that Ware’s development will be key to the team’s success moving forward.
Former IU basketball center Kel’el Ware got his first NBA start on Tuesday evening.
And right away, he made a splash.
The 7-footer scored 20 points, pulled down a career-high 15 rebounds and added two blocks in 38 minutes against Portland.
According to OptaSTATS, Ware joins basketball great David Robinson as just the second player in the last 40 years to produce 20+ points, 15+ rebounds, and 2+ blocks in their first NBA career start.
Ware’s role and productivity have been on the rise for the last few weeks. Tuesday night’s effort followed a career-high tying 25 points against San Antonio on Sunday. Over his last 12 games, Ware is averaging 12.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks over 22.1 minutes per contest.
Prior to that, Ware’s role had been limited in his first NBA season that included some time in the G League.
Ware played one season for IU and led the Hoosiers in scoring (15.9 points per game), rebounding (9.9), blocked shots (1.9), and field goal percentage (58.6%). He was voted second-team All-Big Ten by the media.
Miami chose Ware with the 15th pick of the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft in June.
For more coverage of Hoosiers in the NBA, GO HERE.
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Kel’el Ware did something matched only by the great David Robinson in first NBA start
In a stunning debut for the Indiana Pacers, rookie center Kel’el Ware made headlines with a performance that drew comparisons to Hall of Famer David Robinson. In his first NBA start, Ware put up a stat line that included 25 points, 15 rebounds, 5 blocks, and 3 assists, a feat that has only been matched by the legendary Robinson.
The 7-foot-2 Ware showed off his impressive skill set on both ends of the court, dominating the paint with his shot-blocking ability and finishing with authority around the rim. His performance left fans and analysts alike in awe, with many already touting him as a future star in the league.
Ware’s impact was felt immediately, as he helped lead the Pacers to a decisive victory over a playoff contender. His presence in the lineup has already sparked excitement and optimism within the organization, with many believing that he could be the missing piece to propel the team to new heights.
As the dust settles on his historic debut, all eyes will be on Ware as he looks to continue his impressive play and establish himself as one of the premier big men in the NBA. With a performance that echoes the greatness of David Robinson, the sky is truly the limit for Kel’el Ware.
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Kel’el Ware, NBA debut, David Robinson, Indiana basketball, IU Hoosiers, college basketball, basketball news, sports highlights, rookie standout, impressive performance, historic achievement.
It’s finally happening. The Kel’el Ware breakout has arrived. Rostered in just 29% of leagues, Ware should be considered a must-roster player at this point. On Sunday, Ware started the second half of their win over the Spurs and contributed 25 points, eight rebounds and two blocks in 34 minutes. He had slowly taken on a larger role off the bench, and he had a few strong performances prior to that, but starting the second half was a sign that he had earned more responsibility.
On Tuesday, Ware moved into the starting lineup alongside Bam Adebayo in the frontcourt. It was the first start of his career, and he supplied 20 points, 16 rebounds, two blocks and two 3-pointers in 39 minutes. There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the Heat, specifically with what they’re going to do with Jimmy Butler. However, Ware has been a beacon of hope during these confusing times in Miami. The Heat still have two more games this week and three games next week.
Here are a few other options to consider streaming:
PF/C Guerschon Yabusele (16% rostered), Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid’s availability will continue to be one of the biggest question marks in the league, which has opened up a ton of minutes for Yabusele and Andre Drummond, when available. Yabusele came off the bench on Tuesday, but he played more minutes than Drummond and was more productive statistically. The 76ers have two more games this week with a back-to-back on Friday and Saturday, and they start next week with a back-to-back on Tuesday and Wednesday. Even if Embiid returns soon, he will miss at least two of their next four games. He is set to be re-evaluated soon, which should provide more clarity, but until he returns, Yabusele should be worth rostering.
SG/SF Duncan Robinson (14% rostered), Miami Heat
Robinson returned to the starting lineup three games ago and has been very productive. He had seven assists in his first start, and he has scored 43 points and hit 11 triples over their last two games. Robinson hasn’t been a dependable fantasy option this season, but he has the hot hand right now, making him worth considering if you need 3-pointers.
PG/SG Anthony Black (12% rostered), Orlando Magic
Black got the start on Tuesday and continued his productive stretch. This was his sixth straight game scoring in double figures, and he contributed 17 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and one 3-pointer as a starter against Toronto with Cole Anthony (illness) sidelined. If Anthony remains out against Portland on Thursday, Black should continue to start and turn in strong value.
PG/SG Nick Smith Jr. (9% rostered), Charlotte Hornets
Smith Jr. remains widely available, but he has started their last two games and been productive. He has averaged 17.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.0 assist, 1.0 steal and 4.0 threes per game as a starter, and with Brandon Miller out indefinitely, Smith Jr.’s starting job should be safe. They have three more games this week and two more four-game weeks after that.
Fantasy basketball managers, it’s time to take notice of rookie center Kel’el Ware. The young big man has officially taken over as the starting center for the Memphis Grizzlies and is making a big impact on both ends of the court.
Ware has been putting up impressive numbers in his new role, averaging double-digit points, rebounds, and blocks in his last few games. He’s showing off his shot-blocking prowess and has been a force on the boards.
If you’re looking to add a big man who can provide you with blocks, rebounds, and efficient scoring, Ware is your guy. He has the potential to be a game-changer for your fantasy team and could help lead you to victory.
Don’t wait too long to scoop up Ware off the waiver wire, as his value is only going to continue to rise as he settles into his starting role. Get ahead of the curve and add him to your roster before it’s too late.
Even in a historically poor year for the incoming class, it may be too late for Kel’el Ware to campaign for this season’s NBA Rookie of the Year award. Regardless, Ware is drawing rave reviews from Miami Heat teammates and coaches as he continues adjusting to the pros.
Miami’s had an inconsistent season for myriad (and obvious) reasons. The Jimmy Butler drama, blown leads and untimely losing streaks have been the chief causes for consternation for the Heat. Coach Erik Spoelstra maintains a pulse on what his team needs on a given day, even if it tests the patience of curious fans and observers who want to see Ware get more opportunities to flash his promise, raise Miami’s ceiling and offer glimpses of its future.
On Sunday, previews of that potential became more prominent as Ware logged his most extensive playing time alongside teammate Bam Adebayo, who has mostly held down center minutes for Miami since becoming a full-time starter more than five seasons ago. As the Heat logged a 128-107 home win over Victor Wembanyama’s San Antonio Spurs, Ware and Adebayo recorded 13 minutes of playing time together after entering the matchup with a two-minute sample size. Altogether, Miami’s budding frontcourt duo is holding opponents to 32 percent shooting when they’re on the court and 57.1 points per 100 possessions to yield a 54.6 net rating.
Yes, that is a 15-minute sample. As their time together grows, there will be some regression to the mean. But it’s quite clear the 7-foot tall Ware, who leads the team in blocks per game despite ranking 10th in total minutes, can raise the Heat’s ceiling after patiently moving toward the rotation.
For most of the season, Adebayo, who has since become a three-time All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist, has jokingly suggested Ware should be grateful for any burn he gets on the court as a rookie, seeing as Adebayo barely averaged 20 minutes during his first two NBA seasons. But Adebayo, an annual anchor of a defensive juggernaut, sees the upside of highlighting Ware for a team often short on shot-blocking. After Sunday’s win, he predicted being able to get “a couple of All-Defensive teams out of my young fella.”
“He’s 7-1. You can’t teach height,” Adebayo adeed on Tuesday after shootaround in preparation for the night’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers. “But also he’s athletic, coordinated, can jump, rebound, block shots. And he has a motor, so, you add all those tools together, you can get a couple DPOYs out of that.”
Kel’el Ware Team Ranks By Span
First 14 Games
Last 12 Games
FG
3rd
1st
Blocks
T-5th
1st
Rebounds
14th
2nd
Contested shots
12th
3rd
Since December 29, Ware has contributed minutes impactful enough to stand out for any Heat player, regardless of tenure. His massive wingspan makes it difficult for opponents to comfortably attempt shots near the basket, often forcing unnatural adjustments and contortions to get off a clean attempt. Although Ware and Adebayo have played sparse minutes together, the latter can comfortably be spelled thanks to Ware’s ability to protect the rim.
Last week against the Lakers, Ware almost immediately rejected — practically punched — an Anthony Davis hook shot attempt en route to holding the latter to 1-of-5 shooting for the game. Notice Davis trying to get the shot off as quickly as possible upon receiving the entry pass, but to no avail. Ware finished the matchup with eight points, 11 rebounds and two blocks in fewer than 18 minutes of play.
On Sunday, Ware was seemingly everywhere on defense, whether it was limiting Wembanyama (2-of-10 shooting when guarded by Ware) or forcing other Spurs like Keldon Johnson into an awkward hop stop before sending the shot back.
“I love it. Nah, for real, I do love it,” Tyler Herro said. “It gives small guys like myself protection behind us, definitely on defense and at the rim. It gives a different dynamic offensively too.”
On Sunday, Adebayo credited Spoelstra for trusting his own coaching and development process by committing to what could be a true game-changer for the Heat, both for the rest of this season and the years ahead. Spoelstra has been patient with bringing Ware along, preferring the rookie to make it obvious why he should (or shouldn’t) be on the court.
Ware spent some time with the team’s G League affiliate this season, but he never let his confidence waver, whether due to his own internal belief, Adebayo’s mentorship or Spoelstra’s approach. Earlier this season, Kevin Love expressed enthusiasm about Ware’s potential as a two-way big in an ever-changing NBA, noting the rookie’s willingness to get better, be coached and maintain a patient temperament even when Ware was fresh off his two-game stint with the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
Beyond Ware’s defensive impact, he also shows great promise as a lob option, floor-spacer and passer on offense. He ran some two-man game with Duncan Robinson on Sunday, which was eased by Ware’s viability as a roll threat forcing the Spurs to focus on him as Robinson was freed up for a drive.
Later in the matchup, Ware drew some strong side attention from Wembanyama and his Spurs teammates before dishing an interior dime to Adebayo for a floater near the rim.
“Oh, man, when you have a 7-footer that can do what he do,it makes your life really, really easy.” Jaime Jaquez Jr. said Tuesday. “Being able to knock down shots, stretch the floor while also being a tremendous roll threat (is an asset for a team). Every time he goes down, bigs gotta make the decision to stop the layup or stop the lob, and that’s a very tough decision to make. … We got to know each other during pre-draft a little bit, so I’m really proud of how he’s come along.”
( Top photo: Issac Baldizon / Getty Images )
After a slow NBA adjustment, 7-footer Kel’el Ware is raising the Heat’s ceiling
Kel’el Ware, the 7-foot center drafted by the Miami Heat, has had a slow start to his NBA career. However, in recent games, Ware has shown flashes of his potential and is starting to make a significant impact on the Heat’s performance.
Ware, known for his shot-blocking ability and defensive presence, has been gradually improving his offensive game and is becoming a reliable scoring option for the Heat. His size and length have also been a huge asset on the defensive end, as he has been able to alter shots and protect the rim effectively.
With Ware’s continued development and improvement, the Heat’s ceiling is being raised significantly. His presence in the paint has given the team a boost on both ends of the floor, and his potential to become a dominant force in the league is becoming more and more apparent.
As Ware continues to adjust to the NBA game and gain more experience, the Heat’s chances of success this season are only going to increase. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see how Ware’s growth will impact the team and help them reach new heights in the league.
Ware will start Tuesday’s game against Portland, Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel reports.
Ware will make his first NBA start Tuesday alongside Bam Adebayo in Miami’s frontcourt, supplanting Haywood Highsmith from the first unit. The rookie first-rounder is averaging 12.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 1.0 threes while shooting 45.8 percent from three-point land in 20.6 minutes over his last 11 games.
Kel’el Ware, the up-and-coming basketball star, is set to make his first career start on Tuesday night’s game. Ware, who has been impressing coaches and fans alike with his skills on the court, will finally get his chance to shine in the starting lineup.
The 6’7″ forward has been making a name for himself with his aggressive playing style and impressive scoring ability. With his athleticism and determination, Ware has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the team.
Fans are excited to see what Ware will bring to the game as he takes on this new role. With his talent and hard work, there’s no doubt that he will make the most of this opportunity and continue to make a name for himself in the world of basketball.
Be sure to tune in to Tuesday night’s game to see Kel’el Ware in action as he takes on this new challenge and continues to make a name for himself in the world of basketball.
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4 days agoMiami Heat center Kel’el Ware (foot) is probable for Wednesday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. Ware is listed on Miami’s injury report due to a foot issue but is likely to play Wednesday. With Bam Adebayo missing Monday night’s game due to back soreness, Ware stepped up against the Clippers as he scored 19 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and contributed a block and a steal in 33 minutes of action. Ware has averaged 20.0 minutes per game across eight appearances for the Heat in January. In those eight games, Ware averaged 11.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks. He will have much more work on his hands if Adebayo doesn’t suit up.—Alen Kurbasic – RotoBaller Source: NBA
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to face off against the Dallas Mavericks, and all eyes will be on rookie sensation Kel’el Ware. The 19-year-old center has been turning heads with his impressive performances in recent games, and he is expected to play a key role in the upcoming matchup.
Ware, who was selected with the 21st overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, has quickly made a name for himself with his dominant play on both ends of the court. Standing at 7 feet tall with a 7’5″ wingspan, Ware has the size and athleticism to compete with the best big men in the league.
In his last game against the Phoenix Suns, Ware put up an impressive stat line of 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. With his combination of scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking skills, Ware is poised to be a major asset for the Mavericks as they look to make a playoff push.
Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating Ware’s matchup against Lakers’ star center Anthony Davis, as it will be a true test of the rookie’s abilities. If Ware can hold his own against one of the league’s best players, it will only further solidify his status as a rising star in the NBA.
Be sure to tune in to the game to see Kel’el Ware in action as he looks to make a statement against the Lakers. It’s safe to say that the future is bright for this young talent, and he is sure to be a player to watch in the years to come.
Castle, the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft, appeared in 12 games for San Antonio last month, starting 10 of them. He averaged 14.9 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in 27.0 minutes per game, with a shooting line of .431/.288/.727.
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