OFFICIAL: Kel’el Ware Named to Kia NBA All-Rookie Second Team!
Miami Heat big man Kel’el Ware has officially capped off a stellar debut season by being named to the prestigious Kia NBA All-Rookie Second Team. The announcement, made by the league on Tuesday, solidifies Ware’s emergence as one of the top young talents in the 2024 NBA Draft class and a promising cornerstone for the Heat’s future.
Ware, selected 15th overall by the Heat in the 2024 NBA Draft, quickly established himself as a significant contributor for Miami. The 7-foot center out of Indiana showcased tremendous growth and versatility throughout his rookie campaign, earning himself a consistent spot in the rotation and even starting 36 of his 64 games played. His ability to impact both ends of the floor was a key factor in his selection.
Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Ware averaged a solid 9.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 22.2 minutes per game. He displayed impressive efficiency from the field, shooting 55.4%, and showed flashes of a developing perimeter game with a 31.5% mark from beyond the arc. His knack for rebounding, particularly on the defensive end, and his rim protection were standout attributes that often provided a vital boost to the Heat’s frontcourt alongside All-Star Bam Adebayo.
Ware’s rookie season was highlighted by 15 double-doubles, 26 games scoring in double figures, and 23 contests with double-digit rebounds. He also showcased his defensive prowess by recording multiple blocks in 20 games. These consistent performances earned him significant recognition, including 44 first-place votes and 50 second-place votes in the All-Rookie balloting, making him the top vote-getter on the Second Team.
This honor marks the 15th time a Heat rookie has been named to an NBA All-Rookie Team, and the eighth to earn Second Team honors, a testament to the organization’s consistent success in developing young talent. As Kel’el Ware looks ahead to his sophomore season, this All-Rookie selection serves as a powerful validation of his potential and sets the stage for an even more impactful career in the NBA.
