The Golden State Warriors were blown out by the Miami Heat 112-86 in Jimmy Butler's highly anticipated return. But Steve Kerr did not believe the crowd or environment at Kaseya Center played a factor in the game's outcome.
The Heat ran a Butler tribute video prior to the matchup. The six-time All-Star who spent five-plus seasons in Miami received a scattering of boos but also some cheers. That was a theme throughout the game, although the Heat had the contest under control wire-to-wire.
It had the potential to be a very hostile environment for the Warriors, who traded for Butler after his dragged-out trade saga with Miami. But Kerr didn't think the environment in the building played a factor in his team's lopsided loss.
"Miami is a great place to live. People don't ever seem too amped up around here. So it really wasn't that rabid an environment. Typical Miami," Kerr said. "The main part of Jimmy's return is that the Heat were ready."
Heat fans have long faced criticism for their occasional lack of energy and late arrivals to games, a reputation that's stuck with the fanbase even during the team's most successful eras. Despite the Heat's rich history of playoff runs and championships, opposing fans and commentators have often pointed out the empty seats that linger well into the first quarter and the sometimes subdued atmosphere compared to other NBA arenas.
But Kerr did point out that the Heat were prepared for what mattered, which was limiting Butler in his return. Butler had just 11 points on 5-on-12 shooting. The loss was the second straight for Golden State with Stephen Curry sidelined.
Related: Miami Heat's Jimmy Butler Tribute Draws Strong Reaction From Fans
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This story was originally published March 25, 2025 at 10:44 PM.