By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Miami Heat are transitioning to their preseason calendar. They face a quick exhibition slate before opening the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Kaseya Center on October 21. Head coach Erik Spoelstra is working with a reshaped roster. Much of the group’s ceiling depends on its European talent adapting quickly to South Beach.
Greek superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is adjusting to a new city, arena, and playbook. Still, the goal remains capturing his second NBA championship ring. “I thrive when I’m somewhere uncomfortable,” he said during preseason media day on Monday regarding the move.
He spent the last two weeks at the team facility to absorb the local environment. “It’s a culture that fits my personality,” he explained.
The 31-year-old forward wants daily battles with Bam Adebayo to prepare him for the long playoff run ahead. “If Bam guards me every single day, things are going to be easy for me when I put on this jersey and face somebody else,” he noted.
Individual rankings do not interest him. Winning the ultimate trophy does. “I don’t care about being the best, I care about being a winner,” declared Antetokounmpo.
Other international pieces are fitting into Spoelstra’s defensive system. Antetokounmpo praised Swedish guard Pelle Larsson after watching him in open gym runs. “He works hard, has a great attitude and approach towards the game,” observed the Athens native.
Meanwhile, Serbian forward Nikola Jovic dismissed any lingering back concerns. He wants to secure a clear role in a crowded frontcourt rotation. “My goal is to be a sparkplug off the bench, hopefully,” he said.
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