The Latest Breaking News from Pat Riley

There was a moment in the second half of this signature Miami Heat night, this beautiful Thursday night, when the television camera swung to a seated Pat Riley, who arched his neck and lifted his chin and offered the angular idea of an eagle surveying his constructed world.

PHILADELPHIA — A tie for fourth place for Pat Riley in the voting released Thursday for 2022 NBA Executive of the Year did not change a more significant reality in the eyes of Heat coach Erik Spoelstra.

In the center of it all, still the most important player on the court, Jimmy Butler prepared for the coming stage by going one-on-one against 6-foot-4 reserve Javonte Smart, backing in for an easy basket.

It was a fitting tribute for a Lakers legend.

CHICAGO — Tim Hardaway was halfway to what on Saturday formally became a Hall of Fame career, and suddenly there was question about whether he had enough remaining fight.

MIAMI — It took a while, but former Miami Heat point guard Tim Hardaway will finally get his Hall of Fame moment.

The biggest names in college hoops are left standing.

Talented cast embodies the flawed but fascinating stars of the era, from Pat Riley and Jerry Buss to Kareem to Magic.

Presidents Day on Monday, the national holiday for White House occupants through history, got us thinking about the leaders of distinction across the decades in Miami and South Florida major team sports.