The Miami Heat decided to sign Precious Achiuwa to a one-year contract, bringing back a player they originally selected in the 2020 NBA Draft. After spending recent seasons with the Toronto Raptors and the New York Knicks, Achiuwa, now 26 years old, returned to Miami with a clear mission: help lead the team back to glory.
The reinforcement the Heat needed
According to Mundo Deportivo, Achiuwa accepted a veteran’s minimum, non-guaranteed contract, a move first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN and Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald. Despite the low-risk deal, the Heat expect Achiuwa to bring valuable depth and energy to their frontcourt.
Achiuwa’s journey began in Miami in 2020. Just one year later, the Heat traded him alongside Goran Dragić to Toronto in exchange for Kyle Lowry, a deal that shaped the team’s future. In Toronto, Achiuwa showed promise: during the 2021-22 season, he averaged 6.5 rebounds, and in 2022-23 he raised his scoring to 9.2 points per game.
Free agent C/F Precious Achiuwa has agreed to a one-year deal with the Miami Heat, sources tell ESPN. A reunion for the Heat’s No. 20 pick in the 2020 NBA draft after productive stints in New York and Toronto. pic.twitter.com/QAE1vkuWYX
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 24, 2025
In 2023-24, Achiuwa joined the Knicks, where he played an intermittent role, contributing 6.6 points and 5.6 rebounds in 20.5 minutes per game. Although not a star, his versatility and defensive presence stood out in crucial moments.
Role in Miami’s rotation
Now back with the Heat, Achiuwa is expected to serve as a complementary piece alongside Bam Adebayo, the team’s centerpiece in the paint. His ability to rebound, defend multiple positions, and finish around the rim makes him an asset in Miami’s system.
Moreover, Achiuwa’s return could prove particularly valuable for rookie Kel’El Ware, who will benefit from learning and competing with another athletic big man. For the Heat, adding Achiuwa not only strengthens their rotation but also reconnects them with a player who already understands the franchise’s culture.
Precious Achiuwa’s comeback symbolizes more than just a roster move—it represents Miami’s trust in a player who once wore their jersey with promise and now has the chance to deliver on that potential.
