The Miami Heat have announced the signing of Josh Christopher to a two-way contract, leading to the release of Zyon Pullin. Christopher, who previously impressed during the Summer League, was named the Summer League Final MVP after leading the Heat with 24 points and shooting 60% from three-point range in the championship game.
Over the course of the Summer League, Christopher averaged 19.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and two steals per game. His shooting was notably efficient, with a 54.1% field goal percentage and a 52.5% success rate from beyond the arc. Drafted 24th overall by the Houston Rockets in 2021, Christopher struggled to find his role in the NBA until joining the Heat. He has credited the team’s “Heat Culture” for his recent success, saying it has brought out his best performance yet.
“I’ve played basketball for a long time,” Christopher shared with Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald. “But this Heat culture has really brought the best out of me. I don’t think I’ve ever had a stretch of games as good as this.”
Christopher, now joining Keshad Johnson and Dru Smith as players on two-way contracts, has been noted for his dedication and hard work, often putting in “unseen hours” to refine his game. Heat Summer League head coach Dan Bisaccio highlighted this commitment, praising Christopher for the effort he has made behind the scenes, including extra gym time and work with strength coaches.
“This is a reflection of all the work he’s put in,” Bisaccio said. “Those ‘unseen hours’—whether alone in the gym late at night or working with a strength coach—are what made the difference.”
The Arizona State product could prove valuable for the Heat if he continues to develop his scoring ability and defensive skills. His improved shooting, particularly from deep, aligns with what the Heat value in their players. Bisaccio emphasized Christopher’s readiness to contribute in any way necessary, noting his proactive approach to getting better and making an impact.
In contrast, Zyon Pullin, who signed with the Heat as an undrafted free agent from the University of Florida, averaged 5.3 points, 1.0 rebound, 1.7 assists, and 0.2 steals per game over six Summer League games before being waived.
Other Summer League performers like Alondes Williams and Cole Swider remain unsigned, and their futures with the Heat are still undecided. Miami is aiming to improve upon their eighth seed finish in the playoffs last season and enhance their roster for the upcoming year.
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