LaMelo Ball and the Minnesota Timberwolves spoiled Giannis Antetokounmpo's Miami Heat debut in a 131-106 victory.
Ball scored 21 points and registered six assists in what was his first competitive game for the Wolves.
Anthony Edwards stole the show for Minnesota, scoring 45 points that included nine three-pointers, making him the first player since Michael Jordan to score at least 40 points in multiple season openers.
Antetokounmpo scored 35 points; however, it was nowhere near enough to keep the Heat close to the free-scoring Wolves. Despite the Greek star's high-scoring display, he was eventually fouled out, which ultimately capped a dismal display from Miami at home.
Miami's star recruit showed glimpses of what he and the Heat could achieve this season, finishing off some nice plays between himself, Bam Adebayo and Klay Thompson.
It was a fantastic team performance from Minnesota, which, outside Edwards and Ball, still registered four players with over ten points. Standout displays came from Jaden McDaniels with 17 points, Ayo Dosunmu with 16 and Rudy Gobert with 15 rebounds.
Miami struggled from the field, often forcing the ball to Giannis and looking completely disorganised on offence.
It was a ruthless shooting display from the Timberwolves, who outscored Miami 63-24 on three-pointers, 42 of which came from the dazzling duo of Ball and Edwards.
Following Ball's trade from the Charlotte Hornets to the Minnesota Timberwolves, many fans eagerly anticipated the partnership that he and Edwards could establish. And after a 66-point display between the pair, all eyes will certainly fixate on their connection for the remainder of the season.
When asked about his relationship with Ball post-game, Edwards added that he and his new teammate are "gonna be like best friends."
Anthony Edwards on LaMelo Ball after the game:
“Me and him gonna be like best friends.” 😂 pic.twitter.com/CKt1mWT8MT
— Hater Report (@HaterReport) October 22, 2026
Up next for the Wolves are the Orlando Magic as they look to continue where they left off in Miami, while Antetokounmpo and the Heat will look to bounce back when they face the Detroit Pistons on Saturday.
