Giannis Antetokounmpo shines in debut but Timberwolves outlast Heat

LaMelo Ball’s tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves began with a 3-pointer from near the edge of the midcourt logo in Miami. Giannis Antetokounmpo started receiving MVP chants from his new Heat fans before the first television timeout. Both had dazzling debuts. But it was Ball and the Timberwolves who left happy after a 131-106 victory. Ball had 21 points, six assists and two blocks in his first official game with Minnesota, more than enough to help the Timberwolves survive a 35-point, six-rebound Heat debut from Antetokounmpo, who had 21 in the first half before fouling out in the fourth. “It felt great being with the brothers,” Ball said, and obviously we won, so great night.” Antetokounmpo wasn t nearly as thrilled after his debut. The two-time MVP made the plays that showed why the Heat were willing to give up so much to bring him to Miami, but it wasn t enough to overcome a loaded Timberwolves squad that saw four of five starters finish in double figures. Among