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Former UM Star Tre Donaldson Took Over Miami Heat Red, White, and Pink Scrimmage
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- Former UM Star Tre Donaldson Took Over Miami Heat Red, White, and Pink Scrimmage
(Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)
MIAMI, Fla. – The Miami Heat held its annual red, white, and pink scrimmage on Tuesday night to raise funds for breast cancer causes; meanwhile, two-way rookie guard Tre Donaldson took the opportunity to make a strong impression on the local fanbase.
In 35 minutes, the 22-year-old finished with a game-high 25 points on 61.1 percent shooting, six rebounds, four assists, and a steal. He had a viral moment for crossing up Heat second-round rookie and former Louisville Cardinals guard Ryan Conwell, who fell on the court as the three-point shot went in.
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South Florida basketball fans are aware of Donaldson's talent and impact; playing with the Miami Hurricanes in the 2025-26 NCAA season. He averaged 16.4 points on 45.4 percent shooting, 3.6 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.4 steals in 35 games (33 starts).
Donaldson played a significant role in the Hurricanes' historic 26-9 turnaround season under first-time head coach Jai Lucas. He had the reputation of being a scorer from previous stints at Auburn and Michigan, but facilitating needed growth upon arriving at Coral Gables. Donaldson went on to have five games with at least 10 assists.
An opportunity for the undrafted rookie to get promoted presents itself. Dru Smith suffered a right calf strain injury during training camp at Florida Atlantic University. He was projected as the Heat's backup point guard to Davion Mitchell. Despite Smith's lack of facilitation background, the 28-year-old has the organization's trust.
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However, Donaldson could make a push in the rotation. Even with a rookie title, he has experience competing against elite opponents and leaving a mark. Donaldson won an SEC and Big 10 tournament title. He can space the floor next to star duo Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo – a 37.7 percent collegiate career three-point shooter.
The Heat still have a final standard roster spot available and $2.83 million of space before crossing the first-apron threshold. Donaldson's two-way contract gives him eligibility for 50 regular-season games. The Heat would likely exercise most of them before promoting him to a standard deal.
Donaldson is part of an organization with a rich undrafted pipeline. Gabe Vincent, Max Strus, Duncan Robinson, Caleb Martin, and Haywood Highsmith are recent examples of what undergoing the Heat system can do for a career.
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The Heat will continue the preseason by hosting the New Orleans Pelicans at the Kaseya Center on Thursday. Donaldson will have another opportunity to crack the Heat's rotation and earn head coach Erik Spoelstra's trust. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. E.T. and will be televised on WPLG Local 10.
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