The Miami Heat know how to bounce back from a loss. After the air conditioning ruined Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the Heat came on strong in Game 2, getting the win before shifting the series back to South Beach. Now the Finals are just getting interest as these two teams battle it out for redemption. As Miami attempts to prove winning last year was not a result of luck and the Spurs seek to move ahead by one game for revenge, Game 3 should be nothing short of entertaining.
Dwyane Wade believes that mental toughness will decide this year's champion. In Game 1, the Spurs weathered the 90 degree heat wave. In Game 2, LeBron James came alive for 35 points, proving cramps were no issue this time around. After a day of rest, the two teams now meet up in Miami where Game 3 presents a new set of challenges.
The Heat are just as good at home as the Spurs are. They have won a franchise-record 11 straight postseason home games. The last that won a playoff game in South Beach was the San Antonio Spurs who took Game 1 last season. They understand what it takes to go down and win a game in the tough environment and the Spurs have zero intentions of heading back to San Antonio down 3-1, so they will come inspired.
Both teams have made their share of mistakes this season. The Spurs turned the ball over too many times in Game 1. In Game 2, the Heat had a slow start before turning things on in the second half. James began to find his way, setting up 3-point shots for Chris Bosh and inside layups for Wade. Bosh is currently averaging 18.0 points per game this series while shooting 59.1 percent from downtown. His 3-point shot with 1:17 left to play sealed the win as he leads the Heat with 29 3-point shots this postseason.
The Heat stress they are not feeling over confident after the Game 2 win. Getting home court advantage will certainly help keep the momentum alive as Game 3 is normally viewed as a crucial turning point in the series. The Spurs are ready to prove they can continue to win in South Beach despite the Heat's record there and intend to prove it on Tuesday.