Serbian basketball player Nikola Jovic recorded eight assists as the Miami Heat defeated the Brooklyn Nets 144-128 in an NBA preseason game on Wednesday, October 14. The 23-year-old forward contributed across several areas despite scoring only five points.
Nikola Jovic finished with five points, five rebounds and eight assists in just over 23 minutes. He made two of his four field-goal attempts, including one three-pointer.
The Serbian international helped Miami move the ball throughout the game. His eight assists also marked his highest total in the team’s four preseason games so far.
Miami Heat Score 144 Points Against Brooklyn
Miami opened the game strongly and led 35-29 after the first quarter. Brooklyn responded in the second period, but the Heat maintained a narrow 69-66 advantage at halftime.
The home team then scored 43 points in the third quarter to extend its lead. Miami added another 32 points in the final period and secured a 16-point victory.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Heat with 20 points, 15 rebounds and nine assists. The Greek star also recorded three blocks during an impressive all-around performance.
Andrew Wiggins contributed 19 points, while Tim Hardaway Jr. added 14.
For Brooklyn, Michael Porter Jr. led the scoring with 27 points. Egor Demin finished with 17 points, but the Nets struggled to contain Miami’s offense.
The Heat shot 59.1 percent from the field and recorded 32 assists. Their efficient shooting helped them maintain control during the second half.
Nikola Jovic Continues NBA Preseason Preparations
Jovic has contributed in several ways during Miami’s preseason schedule.
Earlier in October, he recorded 11 points, seven rebounds and four assists against the Toronto Raptors. He later scored eight points against the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Serbian forward also delivered 16 points and six rebounds in Miami’s narrow 125-124 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 10.
Against Brooklyn, Jovic focused more on passing and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
His latest performance showed another aspect of his game as Miami continued preparing for the regular NBA season.
The Heat have one preseason game remaining, against the Orlando Magic. That matchup will provide another opportunity for the team to evaluate its rotation before competitive action begins.
