By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Minnesota Timberwolves pulled away in the second half to blow out the Miami Heat 131–106 at Kaseya Center on Wednesday, spoiling the debut of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Opening his journey in the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season with the Heat, Greek star heard MVP chants early in the first quarter on his way to a 35-point night. The former champion made 13 of his 19 shots from the floor in 30 minutes, adding six rebounds, one steal, and an assist.
Despite the Athens native’s stellar individual output, his European teammates found limited opportunities. Coming off the bench for Erik Spoelstra’s side, Serbian Nikola Jovic netted four points, while Swedish Pelle Larsson went for two points. Italian Simone Fontecchio failed to score in his minutes, and Russian Vladislav Goldin did not play despite being available after recovering from a right ankle sprain.
Minnesota’s European frontcourt focus relied heavily on interior defense and rebounding rather than scoring. French starting center Rudy Gobert recorded five points, 15 rebounds, and one assist in 32:48 on the floor. Fellow countryman Joan Beringer provided six rebounds and one assist in 14:13. Meanwhile, Italian Donte DiVincenzo remained sidelined as he continues to recover from right Achilles tendon surgery.
While Giannis provided early fireworks for the home crowd, it was Anthony Edwards who stole the show and dictated the outcome. Putting on a masterclass, he exploded for 45 points on 16-of-29 shooting from the field. His perimeter shooting completely fractured Spoelstra’s defensive schemes, as he drained nine three-pointers.
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