The Miami Heat defeated the Houston Rockets 104-100 on Sunday, but it was the chaotic final moments that captured the attention of NBA fans. With just 35 seconds remaining in the game, a violent altercation broke out between Heat star Tyler Herro and the Rockets’ Amen Thompson.
While the brawl was chaotic, it also sparked frustration from Heat star Jimmy Butler. After the game, Butler took to social media to express his displeasure with the referees’ handling of the situation.
Butler posted a photo showing Herro being restrained by the officials. The Heat forward seemed to take a jab at the referees, suggesting that they did not effectively manage the altercation and allowed Thompson to remain too confrontational.
Jimmy Butler’s IG story. pic.twitter.com/btr3EAznx6
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The brawl started when Thompson and Herro, battling for position before an inbounds pass, became entangled. During that play, Thompson slammed Herro to the ground with all his force. The scuffle quickly escalated, resulting in both players being ejected from the game.
The incident didn’t end there, as the altercation triggered other players and coaches as they got involved. Rockets’ players Terry Rozier and Jalen Green were also thrown out for their role in escalating the brawl. On top of that, the Rockets’ head coach, Ime Udoka, and assistant coach, Ben Golliver, were also ejected.
Tyler Herro Reflects On Brawl With Amen Thompson After Heat’s Victory
After the Miami Heat’s win over the Houston Rockets, Tyler Herro was asked by reporters about the scuffle that took place between him and Rockets guard Amen Thompson. Herro gave a confident and lighthearted response, explaining that the altercation was simply a result of intense competition.
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“Just two competitors going at it, playing basketball. Just a physical game. Guess that’s what happens when someone’s scoring, throwing dimes, doing the whole thing. I’d get mad too,” Herro said.
Despite the heated moment, Herro had the last laugh, contributing 27 points, six rebounds, and nine assists to lead the Heat to a 104-100 victory. With the win, the Heat improved their season record to 16-14.