OFFICIAL: Miami HEAT Sign Forward Myron Gardner to Two-Way Contract After Impressive Performances During 2025 NBA Summer League Action.
The Miami HEAT have officially signed forward Myron Gardner to a two-way contract, the organization announced Monday, solidifying one of the standout performers of their 2025 NBA Summer League roster. The move caps a months-long journey of determination, grit, and standout play that has earned Gardner an opportunity to compete at the NBA level.
For Gardner, who went undrafted in 2023 but continued to develop in the G League and overseas, the signing represents the culmination of hard work and perseverance. After impressing HEAT brass during workouts and eventually dominating during Summer League play in Las Vegas, Gardner emerged as a top candidate for a two-way deal.
From Undrafted to Unstoppable: Gardner’s Rise
Myron Gardner’s journey to the NBA hasn’t followed the traditional blue-chip route. A Detroit native and former prep standout at Oak Hill Academy, Gardner initially committed to Georgetown but eventually transferred and carved out a name for himself at South Alabama and later in the G League with the Motor City Cruise.
His 2024-25 G League season was marked by elite rebounding, switchable defense, and an increasingly polished offensive game that saw him average 14.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Despite these numbers, Gardner remained under the radar of most NBA scouts — until this summer.
Summer League Breakout
During the 2025 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, Gardner made it impossible for the HEAT to overlook him any longer.
In four games, Gardner averaged 12.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 steals while shooting 48.9% from the field. But it wasn’t just the stats that caught the eye of Miami’s decision-makers — it was his relentless energy, defensive versatility, and winning mentality.
In a pivotal matchup against the Denver Nuggets’ summer squad, Gardner not only scored 17 points and grabbed 9 rebounds but also drew praise for locking down multiple positions defensively. His performance prompted HEAT Summer League head coach Malik Allen to say, “Myron’s motor never stops. He competes every possession. He’s exactly the kind of guy our culture thrives on.”
What a Two-Way Contract Means for Gardner and the HEAT
Under current NBA rules, teams can sign up to three players to two-way contracts, allowing them to split time between the NBA roster and the G League affiliate. In Gardner’s case, he’ll likely play for the Sioux Falls Skyforce while receiving opportunities with the HEAT throughout the season.
These contracts are increasingly being used as a developmental tool, and in Miami’s system — where player development has become synonymous with success — Gardner may be the next in a line of undrafted success stories. The HEAT have turned previous two-way players like Duncan Robinson, Max Strus, and Gabe Vincent into major rotation contributors and, in some cases, starters.
Gardner’s skill set — which includes strong rebounding, hustle, on-ball defense, and positional flexibility — fits well into Miami’s defensive schemes and transition-heavy style. His 6-foot-6 frame and 230-pound build allow him to guard both wings and some small-ball fours, making him a valuable chess piece for head coach Erik Spoelstra.
Team and Fan Reactions
Shortly after the news broke, HEAT president Pat Riley released a brief statement: “Myron earned this. He plays the game the right way — with toughness, energy, and a team-first mindset. We’re excited to bring him into our family.”
Fans were equally enthusiastic, taking to social media to praise the front office for identifying another high-motor player that fits the franchise’s “Heat Culture.”
“Feels like we just found the next Strus or Caleb Martin,” one fan tweeted. “Love this pickup. Gardner plays HARD every possession.”
The Fit: Why Miami Makes Sense
The HEAT’s current roster includes high-level veterans like Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Terry Rozier, but it also boasts younger talent in need of complementary pieces. Gardner’s two-way deal gives Spoelstra the option of calling up a ready defender and glue guy when needed — someone who doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective.
With Miami’s emphasis on defense, spacing, and grit, Gardner’s willingness to dive for loose balls, crash the glass, and defend bigger players on switches could give him an edge. While he may not initially crack the regular season rotation, the opportunity to learn under elite veterans and coaching could prove transformative.
Looking Ahead: Expectations for the 2025-26 Season
Gardner enters the season with a clear path: continue improving in Sioux Falls, stay ready for call-ups, and make the most of every opportunity. The HEAT’s history suggests that Gardner will get a real chance if he continues to do the little things right.
The HEAT are expected to use Gardner primarily in defensive matchups during the preseason, especially in games where load management rests veterans. It’s possible that with injuries or load management later in the season, Gardner could earn spot minutes in games that matter.
More importantly, his presence reinforces the HEAT’s reputation as a franchise that rewards hard work and doesn’t shy away from unconventional routes to roster building.
Myron Gardner Speaks on the Opportunity
Shortly after the deal became official, Gardner spoke to reporters:
“It’s a blessing, man. A lot of people told me this wasn’t going to happen. I kept grinding. I stayed in the gym. The HEAT believed in me, and now it’s time to prove them right.”
He continued, “It’s not just about making the NBA. It’s about staying. I know what this team is about. I’m ready to give everything I have.”
NBA Analysts Weigh In
Longtime NBA analyst and former coach Sam Mitchell weighed in on the move during an appearance on NBA TV:
“Don’t be surprised if Gardner gets some real minutes by February or March. The kid plays with purpose. He does what a lot of guys aren’t willing to do — defend, rebound, hustle. That’s exactly why Miami keeps finding these gems.”
A Smart Investment
For the HEAT, signing Myron Gardner is a low-risk, high-reward move. With minimal financial commitment and the ability to monitor his progress closely in their G League system, the franchise has once again demonstrated its unique ability to find and nurture talent.
For Gardner, it’s validation — but also just the beginning.
His future with the HEAT will depend on his continued effort and growth, but he’s already passed the first test: catching the eye of one of the NBA’s most respected front offices.
The Miami HEAT signing Myron Gardner to a two-way contract isn’t just a feel-good story. It’s a continuation of the franchise’s tradition of rewarding effort, toughness, and potential over flash and hype. In a league where superstars dominate headlines, Gardner’s grind represents the soul of the NBA — where hard work still creates real opportunity.
Whether he becomes the next great HEAT success story remains to be seen, but one thing’s for certain: Myron Gardner won’t be outworked.
And in Miami, that’s the first step to greatness.
