MIAMI – The Miami Heat turned their focus to giving back, teaming up with their community outreach team for the 33rd annual Thanksgiving celebration at the Miami Rescue Mission on Thursday.
The organization distributed 600 Thanksgiving gift baskets, complete with meals and trimmings, to families in need.
Heat President Pat Riley called it one of his favorite events of the year.
“They were dancing to Kool & The Gang, and everybody up and down the line was clapping and doing the electric slide,” Riley said. “It was a nice moment as we were handing out turkeys and other supplies for people. It’s just a great moment. My dopamine went through the roof. I love it.”
The celebration wasn’t just about providing food — it brought the community together for music, dancing, and smiles. Riley’s enthusiasm for the event showed his love for the Heat’s impact beyond the court.
The Heat’s focus now shifts to Sunday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks, but for the moment, the Thanksgiving celebration stood as a reminder of the team’s commitment to their Miami community.