NBA

Former NBA champion explains why he didn't want to play for the Heat

The Miami Heat are an attractive destination for most NBA players, but a former champion passed on the opportunity to play in South Beach.

Pat Riley
© Michael Reaves/Getty ImagesPat Riley

The Miami Heat have been an attractive landing spot in the NBA for a long time now. Apart from its beautiful location, the team has forged a reputation for being a successful franchise.

But unlike other teams who also found success, the Heat’s championships were built on a culture of hard work and accountability from all their players. That culture also explains their two Conference titles in the last four years.

However, not everyone can endure the demanding workouts the organization puts their players through. In a recent edition of Showtime‘s “Certified Smoke,” Stephen Jackson revealed he didn’t want to play for Miami because of the tough minicamp workouts.

Advertisement

Stephen Jackson on why he didn’t want to play for Miami Heat

“I went to a mini – not even training camp,” Jackson said, via Heat Nation. “They got the minicamp in the summer before training camp. I went to that. First – after stretch – 10 minutes on the clock, 10 minutes of three-man weave. I said, ‘I don’t want to play here.’”

The Heat are known for having one of, if not the toughest conditioning tests in the entire league. That’s part of the trademark Heat Culture that demands the best from every player. It led to multiple championships and deep postseason runs, so they can’t see why they should change that.

Advertisement
NBA Rumors: The reason Heat didn\'t pursue Bradley Beal to help Jimmy Butler

see also

Jackson preferred not to go through this, though. He started his career with the New Jersey Nets before leaving for the San Antonio Spurs, with whom he won the 2003 NBA championship. Jackson also played for the Atlanta Hawks, Indiana Pacers, Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Bobcats, Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers.

ALSO READ

Nationals nearing deal with World Series champion for first base role
MLB

Nationals nearing deal with World Series champion for first base role

NBA News: Coach and teammate of Jayson Tatum assert he has greatness locked in
NBA

NBA News: Coach and teammate of Jayson Tatum assert he has greatness locked in

WNBA News: Chicago Sky's new hire could be key to Angel Reese's development
WNBA

WNBA News: Chicago Sky's new hire could be key to Angel Reese's development

NBA News: Paolo Banchero loses key Magic teammate for the rest of the season
NBA

NBA News: Paolo Banchero loses key Magic teammate for the rest of the season

Better Collective Logo