Erik Spoelstra gets critical over Kel’el Ware and in the next game, he puts up numbers that should put the league on notice. This has been the story so far between the Miami Heat coach and the sophomore center.
Ware put up 28 and 19 in his team’s loss to the New York Knicks, a follow up to his 24-14 night the day before, which also ended up in a defeat. What stood out in these games was his three point shooting as he went 11 out 14 from the three point line in those two.
Spoelstra was previously not sold about the 7’3 center adding three point line to his wares.
“I don’t want him hunting for the three because I like him head under the rim,” the coach said the other day.
“But when it’s a paint-touch spray, and it’s a good quality look, I think he’s gaining confidence, and I want to be open to that.”
Ware explained that him shooting threes were all from rhythm.
Kel’el Ware responding to Spo’s comments on his 3-point attempts:
“I felt like I was in a rhythm so i was comfortable letting them go. I mean, most of my game is up under the basket, so whenever I do step out I don’t feel like it’s ever a wrong time.” pic.twitter.com/qSZQv02I8f
— Hot Hot Hoops (@hothothoops) December 20, 2025
Kel’el Ware’s latest performance got Spo changing tune
Spoelstra has a different take this time about Ware and his monstrous numbers. He thinks the young player is improving overall.
However, he is critical of one play that Ware was beaten by Josh Hart.
“It’s gotta be a collective deal. I like the things hes doing. Everybody on the outside will notice the stats. Hes doing winning things. Hes improving. I want him to play with confidence,” Spoelstra said.
“Theres some tough nuance stuff when guarding Josh Hart. Great cutter, tracks down loose balls but Kel’el is improving.”
Some fans expected this nitpicking by Spo against Ware.
He brought up the 1 play where Ware got beat on cut by Josh Hart he is deadass an ultimate hater https://t.co/i621NRT1hp
— Kyler (@Playoffbutler10) December 22, 2025
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