Heat’s Larsson, Johnson Headline All-California Classic Team
The California Classic Summer League concluded with a bang, and two Miami Heat standouts— Pelle Larsson and Alondes Johnson—left their mark in undeniable fashion. The duo was named to the prestigious All-California Classic Team, recognizing their standout performances and leadership during the event held in Sacramento and San Francisco.
The annual showcase, featuring rookies, G-League prospects, and second-year players, has become a summer proving ground. For Larsson and Johnson, it was an opportunity to elevate their stock—and they delivered.
Pelle Larsson: Steady, Skilled, and NBA-Ready
Coming off a solid collegiate career at Arizona, Pelle Larsson entered the Summer League as a player to watch, and he didn’t disappoint. The Swedish guard impressed with his versatile play on both ends of the floor. Over three games, Larsson averaged 15.3 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.0 rebounds, shooting an efficient 48% from the field and 41% from deep.
What truly set Larsson apart was his basketball IQ and composure under pressure. Whether initiating the offense or playing off the ball, Larsson showed poise that belied his rookie status. His ability to make the right reads, defend multiple positions, and contribute in various ways made him a reliable presence for the Heat.
“Pelle has that mature, composed game that every coach loves,” said Heat Summer League head coach Caron Butler. “He doesn’t try to force things. He just makes the right play—and that’s rare in a setting like this.”
Alondes Johnson: The Breakout Star
While Larsson’s inclusion was anticipated, Alondes Johnson was the breakout story of the California Classic. Undrafted in 2023 and spending most of last season developing in the G-League, Johnson exploded onto the scene with his aggressive scoring and electrifying pace.
Johnson averaged 17.8 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game, capping his Classic campaign with a 25-point, 9-assist performance against the Warriors’ Summer squad. His quick first step, improved jumper, and tenacious defense caught the attention of scouts across the league.
“He’s a bulldog out there,” noted an anonymous Western Conference scout. “If he keeps this up, he won’t just make a roster—he’ll fight for a rotation spot.”
The Miami Heat organization, known for uncovering hidden gems and developing undrafted talent into key contributors, may have found another diamond in Johnson.
Future Implications
Both Larsson and Johnson will head to Las Vegas for the full NBA Summer League, and their performances in the California Classic have already given them momentum. With Miami in the midst of retooling its roster after an early playoff exit, the emergence of promising young talent could play a significant role in reshaping the team’s bench.
For now, being named to the All-California Classic Team is a significant achievement for Larsson and Johnson—one that highlights their readiness for the next level.
If they continue to play at this level, don’t be surprised to see both names on the Heat’s regular season roster come October.
