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sports1d ago
Former Heat coach reminisces on Pat Riley telling Heatles players he'd trade them before firing Spo
- Pat Riley publicly backed Erik Spoelstra to the Heat players after a rough start, signaling trust in the coaching staff.
- Riley told Spoelstra and Fizdale not to fear outside noise and that the team would reach a turning point.
- Fizdale recalls Riley’s guarantee that Spoelstra would endure scrutiny but was not in danger, which helped stabilize the staff.
- Riley reportedly put pressure on players to back Spoelstra, saying he would trade anyone before firing him.
- The exchange occurred as the Heat balanced a high-profile roster with a need to prove leadership stability.
- Riley’s actions helped the Heat win 22 of 23 games after his intervention, fueling a historic stretch.
- David Fizdale recounts Riley’s wall-placing moment to reinforce loyalty to Spoelstra.
- The article notes Riley’s gratitude toward Spoelstra for his long tenure with the Heat.
- The piece highlights the lasting impact of Riley’s public support on Spoelstra’s legacy with the franchise.
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