Spoelstra and Miami HEAT team looking forward to kids clinic

The Miami HEAT is looking forward to lending its expertise to the 150 Bahamian children who will take part in Thursday’s basketball clinic, Head Coach Eric Spoelstra said.

“They’ll love it,” Spoelstra said referring to the team. “It was great on the drive in on [Monday] we saw a couple courts outside and saw kids playing and everybody got up on the bus to look out. My guys will really enjoy it.”

The Alonzo Mourning Clinic will begin at noon on Thursday. Children from across The Bahamas will take part.

The Miami HEAT is hosting the kid’s clinic in partnership with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

The HEAT is in town for their training camp, which is taking place at the Atlantis Resort. The resort has transformed one of its ballrooms into a double basketball court. The clinic for the children will take place on the same court.

Power Forward Derrick Williams said it’s important to give back especially when kids are involved.

“When I was a little kid, I wished professional athletes would come in and see us and help us,” Williams said. “And so anytime you give back, especially to kids I think that’s one of the best things to ever do.  To see the smile on the kids faces, that’s the best.”

Shooting Guard Dion Waiters said he’s excited to interact with the Bahamian children.

“I can’t wait,” Waiters said. “I love the kids. What I do back home, everything I do is for the kids. So I can’t wait to meet them and just talk to them.”

The Miami HEAT training camp ends on Saturday. The camp is the result of the team’s partnership with the Ministry of Tourism.

During their weeklong visit, the players also plan to enjoy Bahamian food, culture and beaches.