Swider and Williams Forge Ahead with Heat Summer Team
The Miami Heat’s summer league roster features Cole Swider and Alondes Williams, who both ended last season on two-way contracts with the team. Although no longer under contract with the Heat, they continue to play with the summer team, hoping to secure their next NBA opportunity. Forward Jamal Cain, previously with the Heat, recently agreed to a two-way deal with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Swider and Williams, now unrestricted free agents, can sign with any NBA team after Miami withdrew their qualifying offers. Despite this, they remain committed to showcasing their skills during the Las Vegas Summer League. “Play and hopefully play a lot, play well, and earn my next opportunity,” Swider said, expressing his determination.
The Heat began their Las Vegas Summer League campaign with a 119-114 win over the Boston Celtics on Saturday and will face the Oklahoma City Thunder next. For Williams, the week ahead is seen as an open audition. “I got to do whatever I can to try to see what other teams can see in me,” he said.
The decision to withdraw offers wasn’t unexpected given Miami’s roster situation. With 14 players on standard contracts and a salary cap crunch, the Heat are unlikely to fill the 15th spot to avoid exceeding the punitive second apron. Their three two-way contract slots are filled by Keshad Johnson, Zyon Pullin, and Dru Smith, leaving no room for Swider or Williams without further roster changes.
Swider, a 6-foot-8 three-point specialist, is known for his shooting prowess, having finished last season with the top three-point percentage in the G League. He has impressed during the summer league, averaging 19 points per game and shooting 56.3 percent from three-point range in the California Classic. In Saturday’s win, Swider scored 15 points on 4-of-5 shooting from beyond the arc.
Williams also had a strong G League season, averaging 20.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Although he didn’t play in Saturday’s game, he has been a positive presence on and off the court.
Heat player development coach and summer league head coach Dan Bisaccio praised Swider’s leadership and work ethic. “He’s really in the guys’ ear, helping to keep them organized. He’s working extremely hard,” Bisaccio said. Williams was also commended for his energy and leadership. “When he’s doing that, it just lights up the room,” Bisaccio noted.
Despite their uncertain NBA futures, the Heat’s coaching staff continues to support Swider and Williams as part of the team’s development program. “We’re going to continue to coach them hard, challenge them, and help them improve every day,” Bisaccio emphasized.
Swider and Williams remain determined, controlling what they can and focusing on their development. “They’re controlling what they can control, and that’s the best thing,” Bisaccio added.
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