Recent Miami Heat news reminded us of why we love Heat culture
The Miami Heat run their organization like a well-oiled machine. This much is true given the three titles they’ve won since 2006.
“Heat culture” is the idea of a group of players and coaches coming together, working hard, and trimming the fat wherever they can, all for the sake of a common goal — winning a championship. It’s no wonder practice MVP Jimmy Butler found his way to South Beach.
This sort of culture creates an unmistakable bond between the players. Through the trials and tribulations of hard practices and hard-fought games, teammates grow closer.
That said, pro sports are a business, and sometimes close teammates end up having to be split up for the team to move toward its common goal. This year, it was Justise Winslow who was the odd man out.
Jimmy Butler and Justise Winslow reunite in Orlando
Justise Winslow and Kelly Olynyk were spotted reuniting with Justise Winslow who is currently on crutches with the Memphis Grizzlies in Orlando.
https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1288210096569253888
Winslow initially went down with the Grizzlies to Orlando but sustained a season-ending injury in one of the team’s first practices in the bubble.
As Butler put it after the game (per Ira Winderman), Winslow is a brother to him. He went on to speak about the bond that Heat culture creates between teammates and how Winslow has remained resilient.
"“He’s been in the trenches with us. And if you can survive the Miami Heat culture, you can probably survive anywhere.”"
That sort of culture that breeds resilient players is great for not only the Heat, but the league as well. Young, hungry players willing to overcome trials early in their career lifts the value of the NBA product.
Winslow was drafted by the Heat with a lottery pick in 2015 and for a time looked to be one of the team’s best homegrown talents since Dwyane Wade. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his progression, and Miami’s win-now timeline forced them to make a move that landed them Andre Iguodala.
Winslow is on contract through 2022 with a team option on the final year.