The Latest Breaking News from Pat Riley

Note to self: Never, ever mess with Aldridge's basketball knowledge.

There was a moment in the second half of this signature Miami Heat night, this beautiful Thursday night, when the television camera swung to a seated Pat Riley, who arched his neck and lifted his chin and offered the angular idea of an eagle surveying his constructed world.

ATLANTA — From the Department of Why Bother?, the NBA took the time on Monday to break the tie for the Miami Heat’s 2022 first-round draft pick, with No. 27 now belonging to Pat Riley and his front office.

In the center of it all, still the most important player on the court, Jimmy Butler prepared for the coming stage by going one-on-one against 6-foot-4 reserve Javonte Smart, backing in for an easy basket.

It was a fitting tribute for a Lakers legend.

CHICAGO — Tim Hardaway was halfway to what on Saturday formally became a Hall of Fame career, and suddenly there was question about whether he had enough remaining fight.

MIAMI — It took a while, but former Miami Heat point guard Tim Hardaway will finally get his Hall of Fame moment.

The biggest names in college hoops are left standing.

Talented cast embodies the flawed but fascinating stars of the era, from Pat Riley and Jerry Buss to Kareem to Magic.